Ateneo takes swift action against NU, triumphs in straight sets

MANILA, Philippines – It wasn’t exactly a gracious reunion between the Ateneo de Manila University Lady Eagles and former head coach Roger Gorayeb as the defending champions quickly subdued the National University Lady Bulldogs 3-0, 25-18, 25-21, 25-22, in their second round matchup of the UAAP Season 77 Volleyball Tournament at the Arena in San Juan Sunday evening.

Gorayeb, who was Ateneo’s head coach in 2013 before Tai Bundit took over, led the Lady Eagles to back-to-back Finals to start the Ateneans’ rise to supremacy.

He was, however, treated to an icy welcome as his current team, the Lady Bulldogs, fell victim to Alyssa Valdez and company.

To make matters worse, Myla Pablo gave Ateneo the victory with an erroneous service that went outside of the legal area.

Valdez said it was an awkward moment looking at Gorayeb, who was her mentor in her first year in Ateneo, standing on the other side of the floor and not giving orders to them.

“It was weird that he was on the other side of the court,” Valdez said as her team remained undefeated in eight games.

Valdez added that even though Gorayeb knows their playing styles, the preparation that Bundit put them through was a vital piece in the win.

“He knows our athletic capabilities but coach Tai would always prepare us,” Valdez said. “I was surprised that we took this game in straight sets.”

Dancing in a tight tango throughout the entire match, Valdez once again played hero giving Ateneo the matchpoint 24-21, with a well-placed ace.

Valdez was once again on point for the Lady Eagles with 20 points with attacking partner Amy Ahomiro adding 10.

Jaja Santiago was fairly quiet for NU finishing only with 10 points as her Lady Bulldogs fell to a 4-4 card.