Adamson still in chase for no. 2 spot after win over FEU in women’s volleyball

MANILA, Philippines — Adamson showed steely resolve anew and withstood Far Eastern University 22-25, 25-17, 15-25, 25-18, 15-13 to keep its chase for a twice-to-beat edge alive in the UAAP season 75 women’s volleyball tournament.

Also formalizing their entry to the final four with an 8-4 card, the Lady Falcons gave themselves a prime chance to snatch the second spot against Ateneo (9-4) in the post-season as the end of eliminations looms.

“This win was very important to us because we’re eyeing the number two spot,” said head coach Sherwin Meneses as Adamson, tested with another five setter, bucked nerves down the stretch.

Sheila Pineda, who has become the Lady Falcons’ cornerstone in offense in time for veteran Pau Soriano’s departure next season, shouldered the load in the decisive final set and unloaded 20 points.

“Pineda’s confidence is high,” said Meneses. “It’s good that we were able to match FEU’s intensity and drive in this game.”

Pineda forged a 13-all impasse with an off-speed hit before nailing the go-ahead service winner, which set up Mayette Zapanta, who added 16 points, to go for the match-winning kill.

Trailing 5-9 in the final set when Marie Toni Basas, who had 13 points, took matter into her own hands to even seize the lead 13-12 before the Lady Tamaraws yielded three straight points.

The loss dropped FEU, which was doomed by 39 errors, to fifth place with a 6-6 record, putting its final four chance in jeopardy as University of Santo Tomas jumped ahead with a 7-5 card.

Rosemarie Vargas fired a personal season-high 24 hits for the Lady Tamaraws, including three service aces and two blocks, and registered 11 digs while Wenneth Eulalio added 19.