3 April 2019
By Ardyn Gonzales
Playing without ace spiker Isa Molde, the University of the Philippines Lady Maroons eked out a five-set victory over the upset-seeking University of the East Lady Warriors, 25-23, 20-25, 25-23, 24-26, 15-11, in the UAAP Season 81 women’s volleyball tournament, Wednesday at the FilOil Flying-V Arena in San Juan.
UP had to overcome deficits in almost each set as the Lady Warriors struggled with closing out. In the first set, UE was already two points away from nabbing the opening frame, 23-20, but the Lady Maroons unleashed a 5-0 run.
After establishing a 2-1 advantage in the match, UP was once again challenged by the Lady Warriors in a seesaw battle in an extended fourth set. Unfortunately, Aeishalaine Gannaban committed a service error that gave the opportunity to Me-an Mendrez to force a fifth set via a through-the-block hit.
UP quickly regained momentum in the fifth set as after establishing a 9-5 lead, the heroics of team captain Tots Carlos propelled the Lady Maroons to pull away and seal their sixth win this season.
Marian Buitre stepped up big time for the Lady Maroons with 19 points on 16 attacks and 3 kill blocks on top of 17 excellent digs, who played in lieu of injured Isa Molde. Marist Layug also tallied her season-high 15 points alongside the 16 markers by Tots Carlos.
Me-an Mendrez and Judith Abil carried UE with 23 and 22 points, respectively, while graduating libero Kath Arado dished out 35 excellent digs and 31 excellent receptions.
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