By Ardyn Gonzales
For the first time in recent years, the National University Lady Bulldogs swept the De La Salle University Lady Spikers in straight sets, 25-22, 25-15, 25-19, in the UAAP Season 84 women’s volleyball, Wednesday, at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.
After erasing the early lead of La Salle, NU displayed their serving and attacking prowess, disrupting the defense patterns of the Lady Spikers. Heading into the second technical time-out with a 16-12 lead, the Lady Bulldogs did not look back and went on to claim the opening set.
Despite the adjustment in the rotation, La Salle suffered a 10-20 deficit in the second set as Michaela Belen, Alyssa Solomon, and Princess Robles pounced on the defense of the Lady Spikers.
It was all NU in the third frame as La Salle was unable to extend the match. The game ended with a service ace from Chinnie Arroyo followed by an attack error from Alleiah Malaluan.
The match was highly anticipated as a potential finals preview given the composition and experience of both teams, especially their rookies who were champions in the UAAP juniors division.
Alyssa Solomon led all scorers with 14 points off 10 attacks, 1 block, and 3 service aces. Michaela Belen and Princess Robles chipped in 13 and 12 points, respectively.
Only Alleiah Malaluan scored in double-digits for La Salle with 10 points with senior Jolina dela Cruz being limited to eight markers. The Lady Spikers only tallied 22 attack points as compared to the 40 of NU.
With this victory, NU remains undefeated with a 3-0 standing, while La Salle is tied with UST at 2-1.
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