La Salle closes in on twice-to-beat, blanks UST

Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net

Defending champion La Salle moved closer to gaining a twice-to-beat advantage in the Final Four after blanking University of Santo Tomas, 25-23, 25-23, 25-22, in the UAAP Season 80 women’s volleyball tournament Sunday at Filoil Flying V Centre in San Juan.

Kim Kianna Dy powered the league-leading Lady Spikers (10-2) with 12 points, eight coming off attacks with four blocks.

Despite the straight-sets win, DLSU head coach Ramil de Jesus said his team was still trying to regain its form after a long layoff.

“This usually happens to us after a long break. We tend to be rusty,” said De Jesus in Filipino. “At least, the important part is the result. We were able to survive in straight sets.”

The Golden Tigresses, who are already eliminated from semifinals contention following National University’s win over University of the East earlier, reeled to their ninth loss in 13 games.

Cherry Rondina continued her torrid play with a game-best 23 points in a losing effort.