NATIONAL University (NU) survived Adamson University’s tough challenge, 25-22, 25-19, 25-27, 22-25, 15-10, to go unbeaten in two matches in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines Season 85 women’s volleyball tournament at the SM Mall of Asia Arena Wednesday.
The Lady Bulldogs stretched their winning streak to 20 matches dating back to Season 82, while pulling the Lady Falcons down to 1-1.
But it was NU’s first five-setter since March 4, 2020 when it escaped past University of Santo Tomas, 22-25, 25-23, 20-25, 25-20, 15-13.
University of Santo Tomas (UST), meanwhile, beat Far Eastern University (FEU), 25-16, 28-26, 25-21, for its first win of the season.
The Tigresses forged a three-way tie at 1-1 won-lost with FEU and Adamson University.
“We were forced to our limit by Adamson University, but this is a good experience for the team because we didn’t play any five-setter last season,” NU head coach Karl Dimaculangan said.
Adamson University rushed to 16-0 in the third set but Alyssa Solomon took charge and ignited NU’s comeback to send the game to match point, 25-24.
But Solomon’s serve in the ensuing play sailed out before Trisha Tubu and Kate Santiago scored back-to-back to give the Lady Falcons the third set, 27-25.
Rizza Cruz, however, rose to the challenge by scoring four straight points for Adamson University—three coming off blocks—to extend the game to a deciding frame.
The fifth set went close until at 10-9 when NU stretched its one-point lead on Mhicaela Belen’s back-to-back crosscourt kills and Erin Pangilinan, Solomon and Camilla Lamina joining the scoring spree to finish off the match.
Solomon erupted for 28 points on 27 attacks and an ace, while Belen produced an all-around performance of 23 points, 18 excellent receptions and 12 digs.
Cess Robles added 13 points, including three service aces, while Erin Pangilinan also breached double figures with 12 points.
Kate Santiago led the Lady Falcons with 20 points and 15 excellent receptions, while Trisha Tubu and Lorene Toring had 16 and 12 points, respectively.
University of Santo Tomas (UST), meanwhile, beat Far Eastern University (FEU), 25-16, 28-26, 25-21, for its first win of the season.
The Tigresses forged a three-way tie at 1-1 won-lost with FEU and Adamson University.
Eya Laure led the Tigresses anew with 17 points in 14 attacks, two blocks and a service ace she laced with five digs and five excellent receptions.
Alyzza Devosora had a team-high 14 points, while Jovelyn Fernandez made 13 points for the Lady Tamaraws.
“We’re happy that we’re back on track,” UST head coach Kungfu Reyes said.