9 March 2019
By Ardyn Gonzales
Riding on their momentum in their statement win against La Salle, the University of Sto. Tomas Lady Tigresses pocketed back-to-back victories, this time against the National University Lady Bulldogs in a four-set win, 26-24, 25-17, 23-25, 25-17, in the UAAP Season 81 women’s volleyball tournament, Saturday, at the FilOil Flying-V Arena in San Juan.
UST swiftly jumped to an 8-2 lead in the first set, but the firepower of rookie Ivy Lacsina at the net sparked a run to carry NU in a 16-all tied game.
The Lady Bulldogs actually managed to pull away to reach set point, until Sisi Rondina’s offense exploded to steal the opening set from behind. The Lady Tigresses then continued to overpower NU in the second set with Rondina and Laure trading hits.
With a 0-2 disadvantage, NU stunned UST as they established a 19-12 lead in the third frame. However, the Lady Tigresses attempted to stage another comeback to take over the lead at 23-22. But Cess Robles knew better as she unleashed three consecutive power attacks to close out the set in favor of NU.
Unfortunately, the Lady Bulldogs were not able to retain the momentum on their side as UST retaliated right away in the fourth set, after building a 19-10 cushion against NU. The Lady Tigresses eventually sealed their fourth win this season, punctuated by an attack from the opposite side by middle blocker Caitlyn Viray.
Eya Laure led all scorers with her second 20-point outing this season, including the team-high 19 attacks. While Sisi Rondina had 16 markers to supplement the performance of Laure.
Cess Robles and Ivy Lacsina continued to carry the young NU squad with 14 points apiece, while another rookie-libero Jennifer Nierva impressed everyone with her prowess in defense, tallying 26 excellent digs and 31 excellent receptions.
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