NU back on winning track, survives skidding UP

NU Lady Bulldogs. Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net

National University snapped a three-game losing skid after turning back University of the Philippines in five sets, 25-23, 25-17, 22-25, 18-25, 15-12, in the UAAP Season 79 women’s volleyball tournament Sunday at Mall of Asia Arena.

The Lady Bulldogs improved to 4-3 while sending the Lady Maroons to their third straight setback after winning their first four outings.

NU trailed, 10-6, in the fifth set but Risa Sato came through in the clutch scoring three of the Lady Bulldogs’ last five points including the winning hit.

Lady Bulldogs head coach Roger Gorayeb said Jaja Santiago was a huge catalyst for the team as they came back in the fifth set and he added that he was thankful the players never lost the intensity despite UP pulling ahead.

“I was waiting for the formation to turn around because Jaja was at the back, good thing was the players never gave up and when Jaja made it in front she was just an intimidating presence,” said Gorayeb.

NU appeared to be on its way to a straight-sets victory before UP came alive behind veteran spiker Nicole Tiamzon, who sent the match to a deciding fifth set.

Santiago had 18 points to lead the Lady Bulldogs while Jorelle Singh and Sato combined for 27.

Marian Buitre led the Lady Maroons with 20 points while Diana Carlos and Tiamzon added 18 and 15 points, respectively.