UAAP: NU turns back Adamson behind Santiago

NU Lady Bulldogs. Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net

National University redeemed itself from a straight-sets loss to Ateneo with a 17-25, 25-20, 25-20, 25-20 win over Adamson in the UAAP Season 78 women’s volleyball tournament at Philsports Arena.

Jaja Santiago powered the Lady Bulldogs with an efficient 20-point night, hitting 18 out of 36 attempts.

Unlike in their season debut last Sunday, where they lost big leads, the Lady Bulldogs showed their character — recovering from a poor opening set loss and maintaining their form in the last three.

“I know Ateneo is a strong team but we were able to take big leads for two sets. My problem was their character inside the court. They’re capable of taking the lead but after that they lose focus,” said NU head coach Roger Gorayeb in Filipino.

“I always emphasize to them that they have to keep on giving the ball to Jaja. She’s our biggest advantage,” said Gorayeb.

Myla Pablo added 13 points for NU, which faces La Salle next.

Jema Galanza had 17 points for Adamson, which failed to build on its gritty win over University of Santo Tomas last Wednesday.