After a disappointing start from last season’s runner-up, the Ateneo de Manila University Lady Eagles successfully barged in the win column with a 16-25, 25-22, 25-22, 25-23 victory over the University of Sto. Tomas Lady Tigresses in UAAP women’s volleyball, Sunday, at FilOil Flying-V Arena in San Juan City.
The last time Ateneo experienced a win was back in the semifinals of Season 79, where they eventually lost two games in the Finals and another two games to start their Season 80 campaign.
UST came out prepared and obviously did their assignment, taking advantage of the unstable reception of the Lady Eagles to easily get the first set.
However, the determined Ateneo squad bounced back in the next three sets with come-from-behind wins. The Lady Eagles took it one point at a time to start their run with the UST leading in each of the set.
When Ateneo was already at match point, 24-21, the Lady Tigresses were able to close in and cut down the lead to a single point. But Bea de Leon wasted no time and finished the game via a strong off-the-block middle attack.
The Lady Eagles survived the game despite giving away 15 service aces to the Lady Tigresses. It was a total team effort by Ateneo with four players in double-digits.
The current best scorer of the league Sisi Rondina once again led the Lady Tigresses with 22 points.
Player of the Game: Bea de Leon, 11 points (8 attacks and 3 service aces)
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