The Adamson University Lady Falcons (AdU) thwarted the pesky University of the Philippines Lady Maroons in straight sets, 25-22, 25-22, 28-26, to enter the win column in the UAAP Season 86 women’s volleyball tournament last Saturday.
Adamson bounced back after its opening day loss at the hands of the defending champions, La Salle.
Outside hitter Ishie Lalongisip propelled Adamson to its first victory with an all-around performance, scoring 12 points and collecting 16 excellent digs. The Lady Falcons also got solid contributions from Mary Ann Nuique and Antonette Adolfo, who scored 12 and 11 points respectively. Karen Verdeflor was spectacular protecting the floor with 21 excellent digs and 12 excellent receptions.
On UP’s side, Nina Ytang was the only Lady Maroon who scored in double digits with 18 points in 12 attacks and six blocks, while libero Giesha Capistrano contributed 25 excellent digs and 15 excellent receptions on the defensive end.
After establishing an early 9-3 lead, Adamson had to hold off UP’s fightback late in the opening set with Nuique’s running hit.
In the second set, the Lady Falcons built another six-point cushion midway through. The Lady Maroons responded with a 4-0 run to cut their deficit to two. However, Lalongisip sealed the victory, giving Adamson a comfortable 2-0 lead in the match.
Unlike the first two sets, the San Marcelino-based squad had to squeak out in the third frame to secure the victory. With the score tied at 26-all, Nuique once again came to the rescue as she drilled another running attack. Then, Ytang committed a net violation to end the game.
The Lady Falcons are aiming for their second victory against the vengeful National University (NU) Lady Bulldogs on Wednesday, February 28 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
