Ateneo ends UP teams’ volley run

Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net

ATENEO didn’t give the University of the Philippine teams much chance to relish their UAAP Final Four stints.

Showcasing their sharp form, the Lady Eagles whipped the young Lady Maroons in straight sets, 25-19, 25-16, 25-21, to advance to their fifth straight women’s volleyball championship Saturday at Mall of Asia Arena.

“Definitely, let’s give it to UP who gave us a good fight,” Ateneo star Alyssa Valdez said of the Lady Maroons, who advanced to the Final Four for the first time in 13 seasons.

“For a rookie-laden team, a very young team, they have so much potential to be back next year.”

The Blue Eagles also returned to the title round after whipping the Maroons, 25-12, 25-13, 25-16, in the men’s semifinals.

Both Ateneo squads held twice-to-beat incentives after topping the elimination round.

Valdez and Jho Maraguinot teamed up for 33 points as the Lady Eagles coasted past the Lady Maroons in the first two sets, taking leads by as many 10 points.

Although the Lady Maroons put up some fight in the third frame, Valdez delivered the clutch hits that extended their 19-18 edge to 23-18.

“I’m just really lucky to be there again [in the Finals] for the last time,” said Valdez, the two-time MVP playing her fifth and final year.

Maraguinot collected 10 kills, three blocks and four aces for a team-best 17 points, while Valdez fired 16 points, 14 coming off attacks.

The Lady Eagles also held UP’s rookie sensation Isa Molde to just four points.

“We were not just focused on one player,” said Valdez. “But the blocking of [Amy Ahomiro] and Bea (de Leon) also worked.”

Marck Espejo tossed in all of his 12 points off kills as the Eagles cruised past the Maroons by peppering them with attacks, 39-17.

“Easy game, but it wasn’t an easy preparation for us,” said Ateneo coach Oliver Almadro. “UP hasn’t been in the Final Four in a long time, so it’s hard not to take them lightly. They won’t be in the Final Four if they’re not talented and determined.”

No. 2 Adamson also hopes to finish off National University in the other men’s semifinal duel at 2 p.m. today also at MoA Arena.

Powerhouse La Salle likewise goes for the last title slot versus Far Eastern University in women’s action at 4 p.m.