UAAP: Khy Cepada regains touch to fuel UE’s gallant stand

UE Lady Warriors’ Khy Cepada in the UAAP Season 86 women’s tournament. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

MANILA, Philippines — With the University of the East seeking to play spoiler in its remaining matches, Khy Cepada picked the best time to unleash her best game of the UAAP Season 86 women’s volleyball tournament so far.

Cepada delivered her season-best 23 points as UE pushed La Salle sans Angel Canino to its limits before absorbing a 25-23, 21-25, 25-17, 22-25, 15-12 loss on Tuesday at Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Cepada, who struggled in their first nine games, rediscovered her scoring touch in the hopes of making most of their last match of the season against the Lady Spikers.

SCHEDULE: UAAP Season 86 volleyball second round

“Since this is our last time facing La Salle this season, we’ll give it our all to make it hard for them and play the spoiler role in the standings,” said Cepada in Filipino.

“And we proved that we can. I also proved that I can help my teammates. Because I was asking myself: “When I will be able to step up?”These past few games, I’ve been doubting myself why it is hard to score and play my game. I just believed that I could do more.”

The sophomore spiker credited her breakout game to UE deputy coach Dr. Obet Vital, who has been encouraging her to translate her performance in practice to the game.

READ: UAAP: La Salle survives anew without Angel Canino, outlasts UE

“He never gave up on me. So have to repay his trust,” Cepada said.

Vital praised Cepada for stepping up and hopes the Lady Warriors keep performing on that level amid their 2-8 record.

“We came here to make history.  I’m happy we did well. It could’ve been better, could’ve had a bonus, almost, but this is now our baseline. I’m hoping that they maintain this for the rest (of the season) and set the tone,” the UE coach said.

“The good news is Khy (Cepada) played well. The bad news is she cannot go lower than that standard because I know she can do it just like the other players.”

Cepada promises to sustain her fine form in their last four elimination round games.

“It will serve as an inspiration. I have to surpass my 23 points. If I can score 25 to 30 points because the team is working hard in training,” she said.