PVL: Molde powers UP past Perpetual Help

Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net

University of the Philippines steamrolled University of Perpetual Help, 25-10, 25-12, 25-23, to open its campaign in the Premier Volleyball League Collegiate Conference Saturday at Filoil Flying V Centre in San Juan.

Isa Molde led the Lady Maroons’ dominating debut with 14 points, eight coming off kills, while Marian Buitre added seven points.

UP coach Godfrey Okumu said he liked what he saw from his players especially in the third set where they responded from a spirited fightback by Perpetual Help.

“The team showed they’re able to take pressure even though, sometimes they’re in a hurry,” said Okumu. “Hopefully, we learn how to slow it down.”

“But that’s how we train. We train under pressure for us to be able to adjust during the game.”

The Lady Maroons played minus their team captain Tots Carlos, who is recovering from a shin injury.

UP, however, didn’t need Carlos on Saturday with Molde showing the way and getting ample help from the others.

Jowie Versoza scored even points for the Lady Altas, who reeled to their third straight loss in as many stints.

Perpetual Help struggled on the offensive end with only seven excellent sets.