DE La Salle star Ara Galang was carried off in a stretcher late in Saturday’s match against National University, dampening the joy of the Lady Spikers after a four-set win and a return to the UAAP women's volleyball finals.
Galang had just scored on a spike to give the Lady Spikers a 23-20 lead in the fourth set when Galang landed awkwardly and appeared to twisti her left knee, crumpling into the floor in pain.
La Salle officials could not immediately determine the extent of the injury as she was immediately brought to the Makati Medical Center. Galang's left knee, however, was stabilized and heavily wrapped.
When asked by the medic group Ambucare EMS Solutions, Galang said the pain was '10 on a scale of 10.'
The Lady Spikers' leading scorer and acknowledged leader was in tears when she was put on the ambulance that brought her to the hospital.
The extent of the injury should have a big say on the Lady Archers' bid to regain the title from rival Ateneo, which will enjoy a thrice-to-beat advantage in the finals after a sweep of the two-round eliminations.
La Salle coach Ramil de Jesus said during the post-game interview he has no idea yet of Galang’s situation.
“’Sa ngayon di ko pa alam ang kondisyon niya after the incident. Mamaya ko pa siguro makikita,” said the 18-year Lady Spikers mentor.
Meanwhile, Galang’s mother rushed to the dugout but MOA Arena guards stopped her from getting in. The elder Galang was seen crying and begging to see her daughter, to no avail.
Former Adamson player and Galang’s friend Bhebs Pineda also pleaded with the security to let them in.