NU Lady Bulldogs react after a play. Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net
National University was having a field day against a winded Philippine Air Force, taking an impressive two sets to one lead in its elimination game in the Shakey’s V-League Open Conference Wednesday at San Juan Arena.
A 25-13 set was all the Lady Bulldogs put them on the hill against veteran Air Spikers, but disaster struck when PAF took the next two sets en route to a 23-25, 25-21, 13-25, 25-23, 15-8 win.
Head coach Roger Gorayeb said the problem is rooted in his Lady Bulldogs’ lack of character.
“Iyon ang sinasabi ko sa kanila, kulang yung character nila,” said Gorayeb. “Okay lang matalo, pero we did not lose the game kasi super strong ng kalaban, natalo kami kasi we did not have the heart to win.”
NU had games against Pocari Sweat and Bali Pure where it would lead 2-1 in sets but eventually crumbled in the fourth and fifth.
Both Pocari and Bali Pure are club teams with players who are playing professionally.
Gorayeb told his players to move on from the UAAP season where they had been afterthoughts and establish what kind of team they want to be.
“Alisin na nila ang multo ng nakaraan, hindi tayo maka move on,” said Gorayeb. “Matalo man gusto ko we become stronger. Nawawala kasi desire nila to win pagdating ng fourth set and pag fifth set wala na talaga.”
“Nung UAAP ganyan sila, pagdating dito andyan pa rin.”
Despite the Lady Bulldogs’ struggles, Gorayeb still managed to find a bright spot.
“We have the capacity to win against stronger teams.”