Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net
National University gutted out a hard-fought four-set win over University of the Philippines, 25-23, 25-23, 23-25, 26-24 Monday in Game 1 of the best-of-3 semifinals in the Shakey’s V-League Season 13 Collegiate Conference at Philsports Arena in Pasig.
Jaja Santiago put her foot down and scored the final four points for the Lady Bulldogs, including the game-sealing block on Justine Dorog to take a 26-24 fourth set victory.
The 6-foot-4 middle blocker finished with 22 points powered by 17 kills, three blocks, and two service aces to usher NU to a 1-0 series lead.
Jorelle Singh also got 22 markers, 20 of which from attacks, while Aiko Urdas had 12.
NU coach Edjet Mabbayad praised his Lady Bulldogs as they came through against a very tough Lady Maroons crew.
“Nakikita ko na kahit dikitan, lumalaban sila at andoon ang tapang. Pero kailangan pa rin naming i-maintain yun kasi minsan, nara-rattle pa rin sila,” he said.
“Gusto ko yung attitude nila. Pero pag ganyang dikdikan, kailangan pa rin na patibayin namin yung loob nila.”
Game 2 is on Wednesday, still at Philsports Arena.
Nicole Tiamzon carried UP as she fired 16 of her 17 points off hits, while Isa Molde wound up with 13.