By Ardyn Gonzales
The Ateneo de Manila University Blue Eagles finally got their first win this season after pulling off a reverse sweep victory against their neighbors University of the Philippines Lady Maroons, 22-25, 20-25, 25-22, 25-17, 15-9 in the UAAP Season 86 women’s volleyball tournament at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City.
Down with a 0-2 disadvantage, Lyann de Guzman and Sobe Buena rose to the occasion and rallied the team to even the match.
In the third set, Ateneo and UP were in a 20-all deadlock but De Guzman displayed composure and scored consecutive attacks to extend the game.
With momentum on their side, the Blue Eagles soared easily in the fourth and quickly built an 18-10 cushion, then went on to force a fifth set.
Errors plagued the UP in the fifth as Ateneo took advantage of the miscues from the Lady Maroons. Up 10-4, De Guzman, Buena, and Geezel Tsunashima connived in the offense and completed the reverse sweep.
De Guzman led all scorers with 24 points on 19 attacks, four kill blocks, and a service ace to go with 11 excellent digs and 18 excellent receptions. Sobe Buena, who played in four out of five sets, contributed 18 markers.
Aside from winning their first game this season, Ateneo also defeated their former coach Oliver Almadro who is now calling the shots for UP.
Stephanie Bustrillo was the top scorer for UP with 17 points, while leading best blocker Nina Ytang also had 12 points including the team-high six kill blocks.
The Lady Eagles now have a 1-2 win-loss record, while the Lady Maroons remain winless in three games.
Featured image courtesy of UAAP
Follow the writer on X: @sardynas
