UAAP: Pineda rises high for Adamson in crucial win over FEU

Photo by Celest R. Flores

MANILA, Philippines — Adamson’s valiant comeback in the fourth set for a 25-15, 17-25, 25-17, 25-23 win over Far Eastern University gave life to its final four hopes in the UAAP season 76 women’s volleyball tournament on Wednesday.

The Lady Falcons, with the a heartbreaking loss to Ateneo last Sunday still fresh on their minds, came back from six points down to avert a fifth set and fend off the Lady Tamaraws.

“I felt what happened to us to Ateneo earlier,” said a relieved Adamson head coach   Sherwin Meneses. “But at least we pulled off a come-from-behind this time.”

With Adamson holding on to a set lead but trailing 15-21 in the fourth, the Lady Falcons toiled to tie the set at 23 behind the relentless efforts of Sheila Pineda.

“She’s the leader of our team, if she plays well for us we have a good chance of winning. Because we really need a leader and she’s our senior,” said Meneses.

The Falcons’ star spiker finished with 20 points which included two service aces and 10 excellent digs. Marleen Cortel added 12 points.

Pineda accounted for five points in Adamson’s game-clinching 11-2 blast, including a powerful hit to seal the much-needed victory.

The Lady Falcons tied the Lady Tamaraws at sixth place with a 6-6 record in a fierce battle  for the last two final four spots.

“We’re still alive, we need to win our last two games so we can get a chance. At least our fate is in our hands,” said Meneses.

After a dominant win over University of Santo Tomas over the weekend, the Lady Tamaraws, meanwhile, lost their chance to widen their lead at the fourth spot.

Leading rookie Bernadette Pons finished with 16 points for FEU, which missed the dominance of Remy Palma who was hobbled by a torn ligament.