AS promised, Bernadeth Pons atoned for her worst game this season by leading Far Eastern University to a straight-set win over University of Santo Tomas, 25-21, 25-21, 25-23, on Wednesday.
The FEU star scored 15 markers, three times her meager five-point outing in a loss to Ateneo last week, as she took it upon herself to lead the Lady Tamaraws back into the winners' circle in the UAAP Season 80 women’s volleyball tournament.
The win pushed FEU to solo third spot with a 6-3 win-loss card behind National University (6-2) and La Salle (6-2).
“‘Yun kasi parang last game, mas marami pa ang in-error ko kesa sa pinuntos ko. So sabi ko nga sa sarili ko na 'yun ang pinaka-worst na game ko this season,” said Pons.
“So sabi ko hindi ko na afford na maglaro pa ulit na ganun, na sobrang pangit talaga, sobrang lala ng errors. Sabi ko sa sarili ko na kailangan last na 'yun,” she added.
The graduating spiker did not only deliver in scoring but she was also impressive on defense with 18 digs and eight excellent receptions.
Although FEU coach George Pascua didn’t ask anything from his top hitter, he wasn't surprised by Pons’ numbers.
“Noong hindi nag-ano si Pons, given na 'yun na babantayan siya,” he said. “Sabi ko nga sa kanila, 'yung kasama niya, kailangan mag-level up din. Kasi (hindi dapat) iaasa natin kay Pons lahat, or kung sino man na ano, kailangan mag-step up din sila.”