Ateneo setter Jia Morado. Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net
Jia Morado thought La Salle would sweep Ateneo on Sunday at Battle of the Rivals.
“I thought we’re gonna lose straight,” Morado admitted when asked if she expected a competitive match.
The Lady Eagles had every reason to roll over and die after losing the first two sets.
But Ateneo eventually figured things out and bucked its early struggles to pull off a thrilling win in a five-set classic.
READ: Battle of the Rivals: Valdez, Ateneo best La Salle in 5 sets
“It took some feeling out process and adjustments, but we got our groove eventually. It felt great playing again with familiar people,” said Morado, who had previously played with almost everyone in the blue team except for Fille Cainglet-Cayetano.
The 22-year-old setter was vital for Ateneo’s rally, delivering 58 excellent sets, on top of her five points en route to being named Player of the Game.
Morado felt relieved that the Lady Eagles showed a great fight and gave the fans a treat.
READ: Enjoying the game key to winning, says Valdez
“I’m glad that the fans got to watch a good game, and it’s always fun going against La Salle. Even in this game, I really learned a lot, so I’m just happy in the turnout of match,” she said.
Morado stressed that winning is just secondary in the tiff, sharing that the biggest winners of the event will always be the beneficiaries.
“I’m just hoping that everyone is reminded that this is really for a good cause,” he said. “It’s not just for La Salle, not just for Ateneo. It’s not for pride, but it’s for a good cause.”