La Salle looks to bring back the UAAP title to Taft, while NU hopes to keep their back-to-back title hopes alive.
The De La Salle University Lady Spikers are just one win away from reclaiming the UAAP women’s volleyball crown—but the National University Lady Bulldogs would like to say something about that.
In what many saw as a swag-off showdown in Game 1, it was the Lady Spikers that just had a bit more in the tank to pull off a thrilling five-set victory.
“Masaya na nakuha namin yung Game 1, kahit papano pinaghirapan,” said assistant coach Noel Orcullo. “At least, pinakita naman ng mga bata na gusto nila manalo and yan yung magandang resulta, nakuha namin yung Game 1.”
Can NU finally overcome La Salle?
Since their undefeated run in UAAP Season 84, the Lady Bulldogs have seemingly yet to solve the Lady Spikers.
In their three outings this season, La Salle has always seemingly had NU’s number. But if there’s a time to do that, then Game 2 should be that time.
Alyssa Solomon finally found her stride against La Salle as she exploded for 28 points, while reigning MVP Bella Belen was her usual self with 22 points.
The Lady Bulldogs, however, lost an important piece to the team after Sheena Toring went down with a knee injury in Game 1. It’s still unsure whether NU’s dependable middle blocker can return in the series.
Can La Salle close it out?
For La Salle’s part, it’s all about closing the series in Game 2 and winning their 12th title in the league.
Down by a set for most of Game 1, the Lady Spikers kept their composure to show that they have what it takes to win crucial and tightly contested points.
La Salle will likely bank again on their super rookie Angel Canino, who finished with 21 points on 19 attacks and 2 aces in Game 1. The squad from Taft will also lean on its veterans in setter Mars Alba and outside hitter Jolina Dela Cruz.
Can La Salle do it or can NU finally solve the puzzle and force a winner-take-all Game 3?
Game 2 is set on Sunday, May 14 at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.
(CF)