UAAP volleyball: Lady Bulldogs turn back Lady Maroons

MANILA, Philippines — National University relaxed in the second set but still shut out University of the Philippines, 25-17, 25-22, 25-14, Wednesday in the UAAP season 76 women’s volleyball tournament.

The dominant Lady Bulldogs let the pesky Lady Maroons come to life, but woke up together in time to wrap up the second set, 25-22.

“We were too relaxed at one point, we were communicating well on the court that’s why that happened,” skipper Dindin Santiago admitted.

But head coach Edjet Mabbayad just constantly reminded his players to go for the kill, no matter how big their advantage is.

“We reminded them not to relax and be overconfident. The opponent can always catch up. We shouldn’t allow them to get the momentum.”

It was the stark contrast in the third set as NU handily finished off UP, 25-14.

Santiago and her equally-lanky sister Jaja led the Lady Bulldogs’ attack with 16 and 13 points, respectively, combining for 22 attacks and six blocks.

Aiko Urdas added 10 points including two service aces for NU, which improved to 5-1.

The Lady Maroons, though vastly improved, are still in search for their first victory of the season as they reeled to their sixth defeat.

Pauline Araneta finished with a team-best nine points for UP, while Sheeka Espinosa and Katherine Bersola contributed seven markers apiece.