FAR Eastern University found the groove after a slow start and University of Sto. Tomas could not recover from Milena Alessandrini’s early departure as the Lady Tamaraws beat the Tigresses, 19-25, 25-20, 25-19, 27-25, on Saturday in the UAAP women’s volleyball tournament at the Araneta Coliseum.
The Lady Tamaraws got back on track after two straight losses, leveling their record to 2-2.
The Tigresses also hold a 2-2 record.
Alessandrini hurt her left knee in an awkward landing during in the second set and was later brought to UST Hospital.
Celine Domingo led the Lady Tams with 17 points, Heather Guino-o had 14 points to go with 11 excellent receptions and seven digs, while rookie Lycha Ebon added 11 markers.
The Lady Tams take on UE Lady Red Warriors (1-2) on Wednesday at the Arena in San Juan City.
“Intense but sabi ko nga sa players ko, ang turning point natin ay yung game na yun. Pag nanalo tayo, gaganda yung (takbo) natin, tataas ang morale,” said FEU coach George Pascua. “Pagdating ng fourth or fifth doon bumibigay, yun ang mga crucial sets, kailangan mag-mature kami sa ganoong scenario. Na-realize naman nila kahit papaano.”
Pascua admitted Alessandrini’s exit changed the complexion of the match.
“Nakakalungkot yung mga ganoong pangyayari, mga hindi inaasahan. Malaking tulong si Milena sa team,” he said. “Pero hindi naman natin siyempre pinagdadasal yung ganoon. Kung nandyan siya, mahihirapan kami siguro.”
Eya Laure had 20 points all from spikes, Sisi Rondina played through cramps and finished with 16 points while making 15 digs and 12 excellent receptions.
Alessandrini had five points before she suffered the injury.
UST tries to bounce back against La Salle also on Wednesday.
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