NU Lady Bulldogs celebrate a point against Ateneo Blue Eagles. UAAP PHOTO
MANILA, Philippines—National University made a strong statement after it beat defending champion Ateneo on Saturday.
Lady Bulldogs head coach Karl Dimaculangan downplayed the victory with still a lot to play for early in the UAAP Season 84 women’s volleyball tournament.
“It can’t be a statement win because it’s just our second game of the season,” Dimaculangan said in Filipino after a 25-22, 25-15, 22-25, 25-22 win at Mall of Asia Arena. “We still have a lot to work on.”
“We’re just lucky that we’re still winning even though we still have so much to improve on,” Dimaculangan said.
NU was fortunate enough to win even after committing 38 errors.
Dimaculangan, however, said the victory over a team like Ateneo is a big boost to his squad’s morale and confidence.
Princess Robles and rookie Bella Belen posted 18 points each for NU, which climbed to 2-0 after dominating Adamson in the opener on Thursday.
But just like her coach, Robles is far from satisfied from the Lady Bulldogs’ performance knowing they are capable of doing much more.
“We’re playing against ourselves that’s why they (Ateneo) were able to get one set. The team played good but it wasn’t enough,” said Robles, who collected 17 attacks, 13 excellent digs and 12 excellent receptions.