By Ardyn Gonzales
Defending champions National University Lady Bulldogs scored a crucial win against the Adamson University Lady Falcons, 26-24, 25-16, 25-22, in the UAAP Season 85 women’s volleyball tournament, Wednesday, at the FilOil EcoOil Centre.
Last season’s ROY-MVP Mhicaela Belen displayed an all-around MVP performance, scoring 20 points on 18 attacks, two kill blocks, and 11 excellent receptions.
NU was in total control of the match, limiting their top scorers Trisha Tubu and Kate Santiago to nine and six points, respectively, as no Lady Falcons scored in double figures.
Tied 24-all in the first set, team captain Cess Robless came up with a clutch out-of-system attack that went through the blockers of Adamson, followed by an unfortunate error from Rizza Cruz to seal the first set in favor of the Lady Bulldogs.
Momentum stayed on the side of the defending champs in the succeeding sets. Down 23-19 in the third, Adamson attempted to force a fourth set, but a well-placed shot from Belen prevented an extension.
The win of Lady Bulldogs creates a three-way tie at the second spot with NU, Adamson and UST all fighting for the possible twice-to-beat advantage in the second half of the second round of eliminations.
Featured image courtesy of UAAP
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