LA Salle secured the first twice-to-beat advantage in the Final Four as it dumped University of the Philippines, 25-15, 25-14, 25-13, on Wednesday in the 75th UAAP season women's volleyball tournament at The Arena in San Juan.
Reigning MVP Abigail Maraño fired a game-high 13 points on 10 hits, two blocks and one service ace for the Lady Archers who entered the game with a must-win mentality despite facing one of the league’s bottom-ranked teams.
"Sabi ko sa mga players ko walang mahina, malakas o eliminated na team, iisa lang dapat ang respeto na ibibigay natin sa kanina," said La Salle coach Ramil de Jesus, whose team has now rolled to its 11th straight win after losing to University of Santo Tomas in the season opener.
Jay Aliyah Ong made 10 markers in a losing effort for the Lady Maroons, who suffered their 11th setback against a lone victory.
Earlier, Ateneo de Manila University likewise cruised past its cellar-dwelling opponent, besting University of the East 25-11, 25-14, 25-22, to advance to the Final Four.
Alyssa Valdez came away with 19 points, from 15 spikes, two blocks and two service aces, while Dzi Gervacio added 10, from six spikes and four blocks to lead Ateneo, which won its ninth game in 12 outings and solidified its No. 2 spot.
"Whatever happens, nasa No. 2 na kami," said Ateneo coach Roger Gorayeb.
Ma. Leuseht Dawis finished with 11 points, from seven attacks, three blocks and one service ace for UE, which remained winless in 12 games.
Get more of the latest sports news & updates on SPIN.ph
NOTICE ON UNAUTHORIZED AND UNLAWFUL USE, PUBLICATION, AND/OR DISSEMINATION OF SPIN.PH CONTENT: Please be notified that any unauthorized and unlawful use, publication, and/or dissemination of Spin.ph’s content and/or materials is a direct violation of its legal and exclusive rights to the same, and shall be subject to appropriate legal action/s.
