FIGHTING to the finish, the University of the Philippines refused to let its Final Four hopes slip just yet, sweeping also-ran Ateneo, 25-20, 25-14, 25-23, in UAAP Season 88 women’s volleyball on Wednesday at the Mall of Asia Arena.
No five-set comeback theatrics were needed this time unlike Round 1,, as the Fighting Maroons handled business in straight sets.
The win marked just their second in the last seven games, breathing life into a tough midseason stretch, with State U now improving to 5-6.
[We have to] win everything. We got no chances to slow down, and that was important today,” said head coach Fabio Menta.
Nina Ytang powered the maroon-and-green with 18 points built on 13 attacks, three blocks, and two aces. Irah Jaboneta made a timely return from a minor fitness setback with 12 points, while Kianne Olango chipped in an all-around effort of eight points, 10 receptions, and five digs.
Surprisingly, Jelai Gajero anchored the net defense, accounting for seven of UP’s 16 blocks to finish with 13 points.
State U on the up
The Fighting Maroons seized control early, building a cushion that gave them 10 set points in the opener, though the Blue Eagles saved six before eventually conceding.
UP tightened its grip in the second, cruising to an 11-point win to move within a set of victory.
Ateneo threatened to extend the match in the third, even taking a 23-21 lead, but Ytang took over late, scoring five of their last six points, including three in a decisive four-point closing run to seal it in straight sets.
No Blue Eagle reached double figures, with Donna de Leon’s seven points leading the way.
Fellow rookie Ana Hermosura had five points and five digs, while Alex Montoro added five points, eight receptions, and three digs, as they absorbed their 10th loss in 11 games.
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