Lady Bulldogs closer to 2x edge in semis after rout of Lady Warriors

MANILA, Philippines — National University was still relentless even against a winless University of the East and bagged a 25-12, 25-18, 25-13 triumph Sunday in the UAAP season 76 women’s volleyball tournament.

The Lady Bulldogs never let the Lady Warriors get a chance to build a momentum, which is what coach Edjet Mabbayad has been constantly reminding his players all season-long.

Mabbayad expressed delight with how NU has managed to stay sharp each game, as the Lady Bulldogs moved to a win of clinching a twice-to-beat edge come the semifinals.

“Every game they improve, on blocking and team work. We see how they up their game. They don’t stay stagnant, and that’s what we want to happen.”

“But we still need to work on our next three games. We’ll prepare more so we can get a better placing in the final four,” Mabbayad also said.

The Lady Bulldogs (10-1) are in comfortable spot at second place in the standings with a three-game lead over third-seed Ateneo (7-4), and they are already assured of at least a playoff for no. 2.

Dindin Santiago had 23 points including a season-best eight aces, which was more than what UE had combined, to lead all scorers. Her youngest sister Jaja chipped in 10 points.

The Lady Warrriors, meanwhile, reeled to their 11th defeat of the season and still the only squad sans a victory.