By Ardyn Gonzales
De La Salle University Lady Spikers will have the chance to regain the championship as they entered the UAAP Season 85 women’s volleyball finals after defeating the University of Sto. Tomas Lady Tigresses, 26-24, 25-22, 20-25, 25-19, Wednesday, at the SMART Araneta Coliseum.
Angel Canino was unstoppable with 19 points on 18 attacks, while Jolina dela Cruz and Alleiah Malaluan supported the super rookie and connived for 19 markers.
After pocketing the first two sets, the Lady Spikers saw themselves down in the second technical time-out in the third, 8-16. La Salle tried to inch closer and cut down the lead to three, 18-21, but Eya Laure stopped the bleeding with a strong attack from the middle.
The Lady Spikers once again trimmed down the lead to two, 20-22, but three straight points for UST extended the match to a fourth set.
It was La Salle’s turn to start strong in the fourth frame, leading UST in the second half, 21-13. With their season on the line, the Lady Tigresses attempted to mount a comeback and closed in on La Salle, 19-23, but Malaluan ended their run followed by a block courtesy of Thea Gagate.
Eya Laure ended Season 85 with 15 points on 14 attacks, 12 excellent digs, and 11 excellent receptions for a triple-double performance for UST.
La Salle will have a shot to redeem themselves as they set up a finals rematch against the defending champions NU.
Featured image courtesy of UAAP
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