La Salle Lady Spikers during Game 1 of the UAAP Season 85 women’s volleyball finals. UAAP PHOTO
MANILA, Philippines-La Salle took everything defending champion National University could offer on Sunday night to gut out a five-set victory over its old tormentor in Game 1 of the UAAP women’s volleyball championship duel.
The Lady Spikers eked out an 18-25, 25-22, 22-25, 25-21, 15-13 win before 10,995 frenzied fans at Smart Araneta Coliseum, wresting control of the best-of-three series.
Angel Canino was splendid once again, helping La Salle reassert its mastery of NU this season with 19 attacks, a pair of aces, and 14 excellent receptions.
“As Angel said, this is just Game 1. This is not over, so we’re just going to keep at it in training,” according to interim coach Noel Orcullo, already wary of a potential fightback from the champions in Game 2 set Sunday next week at Mall of Asia Arena.
WATCH: Canino says their on-court antics are part of the game. #UAAPSeason85 | @LanceAgcaoilINQ pic.twitter.com/CbhC7poI1P
— INQUIRER Sports (@INQUIRERSports) May 7, 2023
Reigning Most Valuable Player Bella Belen and Alyssa Solomon combined for 50 points for NU but such an effort proved short in breaking a La Salle side eager to avenge last season’s loss.
Game 2 is on May 14 at Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City with the Lady Bulldogs eyeing to keep their lofty perch in the tournament.