Photo: The UAAP
MANILA — Adamson University pulled off a thrilling comeback victory against University of Santo Tomas (UST), 23-25, 22-25, 25-18, 25-15, 15-10, to remain undefeated in the UAAP Season 88 High School Girls’ Volleyball Tournament, Wednesday at the Paco Arena.
After dropping the first two sets, the Lady Falcons responded with a dominant turnaround, winning the next three to secure their third straight win and solidify their position at the top of the standings with a 3-0 record.
Team captain and libero Maegan Pineda anchored the defense with 18 digs and 15 excellent receptions, earning Best Player of the Game honors. Pineda’s steady floor work played a pivotal role in Adamson’s shift in momentum from the third set onward.
Contributing heavily on offense was Ella Gonzalvo, who led all scorers with 22 points, supported by Kristal Martin with 17 points and Cheska Adem who added 15 points, stepping up in crucial moments during the comeback.
Running the offense efficiently was setter Elaine Garces, who recorded 19 excellent sets, orchestrating the Lady Falcons’ attack and facilitating key scoring runs in the third through fifth sets.
UST, now with a 1-2 record, started strong behind Mary Nicole Peláez’s 17 points and Aneeza Doyle’s 12, but faltered in the latter half as Adamson adjusted defensively and controlled the tempo in the final sets.
The match lasted 2 hours and 16 minutes, with Adamson dominating the last three frames to complete the comeback.
The Baby Falcons will aim to stretch their win streak to four as they face the Ateneo de Manila University Blue Eagles on October 5, Sunday at the Blue Eagle Gym at 1pm.
