Lady Archers vault to lead

La Salle Lady Spikers. Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net

La Salle got a bit of lesson on overconfidence, but pulled through just the same against the slow-starting University of the Philippines, 25-14, 25-13, 19-25, 25-20, to gain the early solo lead in the UAAP women’s volleyball tournament Saturday at Philsports Arena.

Mary Joy Baron led the Lady Spikers’ attacks this time, teaming up with La Salle star Ara Galang in restraining a UP side that came to life behind standout rookie Isa Molde.

“In the third set, we didn’t communicate well and got overconfident,” said Baron. “But we focused again.”

Baron, a 5-foot-11 middle blocker, tossed in 12 kills in a 17-point performance to power the Lady Spikers to back-to-back wins.

National U also fended off a spirited fight from Adamson, 17-25, 25-20, 25-20, 25-20, to pick up its first victory in two games.

Jaja Santiago fueled the Lady Bulldogs’ comeback from a set down to finish with a game-high 20 points, 18 coming off attacks.

NU, UP and Adamson all wound up tied with 1-1 records.

In men’s action, Ateneo turned back Far Eastern University, 25-18, 25-19, 25-13, to claim the solo top spot at 2-0.

Rex Intal and Ysay Marasigan fired 11 points each, while MVP Marck Espejo added 10 for the defending champion Blue Eagles.

Adamson also triumphed over University of the East, 25-18, 25-14, 25-23, for its first win in two outings.