Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net
National University pummeled an undermanned University of Santo Tomas squad, 25-21, 29-27, 25-13, at the start of the quarterfinal round in the Shakey’s V-League Season 13 Collegiate Conference at Philsports Arena in Pasig.
Jaja Santiago once again showed her might, leading the Lady Bulldogs with 15 points, powered by 11 attacks and four blocks.
Jorelle Singh had 14 markers for NU, 13 from kills and one block, while Aiko Urdas got 11.
“Malaking boost ng morale ito especially na galing kami sa talo. Maganda ito para maka-recover ang mga bata,” said NU coach Edjet Mabbayad.
The Lady Bulldogs lost an early 15-4 lead in the second set and even fell behind late against the Tigresses before Santiago took charge and gave NU the thrilling victory.
“Nakita ko na naman yung ganun attitude ng mga players. Lamang na kami ng malaki pero nag-relax sila kaya ang bilis din nahabol at di kami agad naka-recover. Late lang din dumating yung bawi namin,” said Mabbayad.
Fortunately for NU, that fightback seemed to have taken the gas out of UST as the Lady Bulldogs jumped to a 16-8 lead in the third set to cruised to victory,
The Tigresses missed the services of EJ Laure and Cherry Rondina, who are both in Thailand preparing for the Asian Women’s Club Championship.
Eya Laure topped UST with 15 points, all from hits.