NATIONAL University is off on a fine start in the UAAP Season 80 women’s volleyball tournament, beating Adamson University, 25-15, 25-23, 16-25, 25-13, on Saturday at the Mall of Asia Arena.
NU graduating player Jaja Santiago scored 16 points from 11 kills, four blocks and one service ace.
“Maganda 'yung pinakita ng team namin, pero sa akin, alam kong kulang pa at marami pa kaming kailangan trabahuhin ni coach Babes,” said Santiago.
Aiko Urdas and Audrey Paran each had nine points for NU, while Risa Sato and Roselyn Doria added eight markers apiece in the one hour and 40-minute match.
Coach Raymond Castillo was pleased to see the Lady Bulldogs recover from a four-point deficit in the second set, 17-21.
Adamson built a 10-point lead in the third set, 19-9, and went on to extend the match.
But the Lady Bulldogs quickly got back on track and took a 10-point lead in the fourth and held on for the opening-day win.
“Siyempre maraming takes sa first game but what I told the ladies is, always remember to enjoy yourselves din kasi nag-trabaho sila ng mabuti,” said Castillo.
Chiara Permentilla, a transferee from La Salle Lipa, debuted with 12 points for Adamson, while returning player Mylene Paat scored 11.