by Kristel Satumbaga
University of the Philippines fought without top hitter Isa Molde yet survived University of the East 25-23, 20-25, 25-23, 24-26, 15-11 yesterday to strengthen its Final Four bid in UAAP women’s volleyball at The Arena in San Juan City.
The Lady Maroons got off early in the deciding frame, cruising to an 8-4 lead on the way to their sixth win in 10 games.
Marian Buitre took up the cudgels for UP and led with 19 points on 16 kills and three blocks while veteran Tots Carlos and Maristela Layug provided had 16 and 15 points.
The win tied UP with University of Santo Tomas at fourth and reaffirmed its mastery over UE after prevailing in their first meeting also in five sets, 25-12, 22-25, 23-25, 25-19, 15-12, on opening day.
Molde had to skip the game over UE after hurting her left leg in the game against Ateneo last week, although she was cleared of any serious injuries.