ATENEO vented its ire on Adamson University, 25-16, 28-26, 25-17, on Wednesday to claim a twice-to-beat advantage in the Final Four of UAAP Season 81 women’s volleyball tournament at the Arena in San Juan.
Coming off a three-set loss to La Salle, the Lady Eagles bounced back as Kat Tolentino delivered 17 points on 12 attacks and five blocks. That was a huge improvement after being limited to just six points in the match against the Lady Spikers.
League-leading Ateneo improved its win-loss record to 11-2.
The Lady Eagles try to clinch the No.1 spot on Saturday when it plays University of the East (3-10).
Cellar-dwelling Adamson suffered its ninth straight loss, dropping to 1-12. The Lady Falcons face University of the Philippines (6-7) on Saturday.
From zero blocks against top rival La Salle, Ateneo had 11 rejections against lowly Adamson.
The Lady Eagles also nailed 46 spikes, while the Lady Falcons had 26.
“It just goes to show that we have to be able to adjust when things might not go our way. Today was a good test for us,” Tolentino said.
Maddie Madayag delivered 13 points from nine attacks, three blocks and an ace but she says she was not satisfied with their performance overall.
“I think we can show more. I don't think that's our best game. medyo magulo rin kami. kahit sabihin nating nanalo kami, I don't think it was convincing,” Madayag said.
Ponggay Gaston had nine markers and made 21 digs. Deanna Wong made 23 excellent sets, while libero Kim Gequillana had 20 digs and 20 excellent sets.
“I commend my players. They really worked hard for it. Hindi sila nagpahinga. They keep on doing many sacrifices,” Ateneo head coach Oliver Almadro said.
Bern Flora and Chiara Permentilla had nine points each for Adamson. Flora also had 25 digs and 18 excellent receptions, while libero Thang Ponce had 33 digs and 16 receptions.
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