Verutiao impresses in first start for Arellano

Arellano Lady Chief Sarah Verutiao.

Arellano head coach Obet Javier gave Sarah Verutiao a chance to orchestrate the offense in the start of their title retention bid in the NCAA women’s volleyball tournament, and the move paid instant dividends.

Verutiao, who was filling in for the injured Rhea Ramirez, put up 28 excellent sets steering the Lady Chiefs to a three-set win over Mapua, 25-10, 25-17, 25-13.

“I think everything happens for a reason,” said the former setter from University of Santo Tomas in Filipino Thursday at Filoil Flying V Centre. “Of course I’m really thankful for the chance and the trust he gave me and my teammates.”

Javier believe that with Ramirez sidelined, it’s the best time for Verutiao to display her skills.

“We’re trying our offense with Sara at the lead while Rhea’s still resting her shoulder injury,” said Javier in Filipino. “As long as Sara’s been performing well for us, she’ll be our setter until Rhea can come back.”

And with a bigger role, Verutiao admitted she felt the pressure when Javier told her she’d be starting the game in the season opener.

“There was extreme pressure for me, and I told myself that this is my chance,” said Verutiao. “This is my opportunity to play and I’ll just follow what coach tells me every step of the way.”