La Salle Lady Spikers in the UAAP volleyball opener. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net
MANILA, Philippines–La Salle’s length and prowess were just too much in a quick and methodical 25-16, 25-16, 25-18 annihilation of Adamson at the start of the Lady Spikers’ title-retention bid on Saturday night at the UAAP Season 86 women’s volleyball.
The win was nothing short of phenomenal since it coincided with the 300th career victory of La Salle coach Ramil De Jesus in the UAAP.
“I never thought that I could reach that number of wins. What’s really important for me are the condition and performance of my players,’’ said De Jesus after reaching the milestone in his 27th season with the Lady Spikers.
SCHEDULE: UAAP Season 86 volleyball first round
Overall, he won 12 championships for La Salle, including last season, and by the looks of how they clobbered the Lady Falcons at the MOA Arena, title No. 13 isn’t a remote possibility.
Angel Canino, last season’s rookie-MVP, was again at the forefront of La Salle’s demolition crew, scattering 14 points, 11 of them attacks, plus three of the team’s 10 blocks that practically helped shut down the Adamson offensive.
“Amazing,’’ said Canino of De Jesus’ record feat. “When I heard of it. I’m proud to be a part of it.’’
La Salle Lady Spikers’ Angel Canino in the UAAP volleyball. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net
READ: UAAP volleyball: With crown in hand, La Salle now a target
Shevana Laput tallied 11 points and had three blocks and Amie Provido likewise got into the action with eight points.
“Every game, all I think about is to deliver. We lost several players after last season, so it’s not easy. I’m happy that I’m slowly gaining confidence,’’ said Provido.
Just like the Lady Spikers, the Lady Falcons also missed a number of key players who brought them to the Final Four last season, their absence quite evident in the straight-set defeat.
300 wins and counting
G.O.A.T. things coach Ramil De Jesus. #UAAPSeason86 | @LanceAgcaoilINQ pic.twitter.com/sBl5dGLCQ6
— INQUIRER Sports (@INQUIRERSports) February 17, 2024
Nobody from the Adamson roster scored in double figures with Rochelle Lalongisip and veteran spiker Lucille Almonte contributing six points apiece.
The obvious mismatch was done in one hour in 14 minutes with Julia Coronel delivering 13 excellent sets and 10 digs for the Lady Spikers, who dethroned the National University Lady Bulldogs last season.
“Coach Ramil always tells us to take it one game at a time. This is our first game, but the hard work in practice has been paying off. It will help our cause to earn more wins as possible,’’ said Canino.
STATS: La Salle Lady Spikers vs Adamson Lady Falcons February 17
