
By NIKOLE JAVIER
National University booked the first finals seat after turning back University of Santo Tomas in a four-set win, 25-23, 23-25, 25-21, 25-17, in the Shakey’s Super League Collegiate Pre-season Conference Friday, Nov. 11, at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum.
NU shrugged off UST's momentum-gaining second set to remain the only undefeated team in the tournament in seven outings heading into the championship.
The Lady Bulldogs blew away a four-point advantage in the second set, 21-17, as they couldn’t contain Regina Jurado who scored the last three points for the Tigresses in their 8-2 run.
However, NU quickly got back to its feet in the next two sets, causing the UST side to crumble in the fourth with back-to-back errors that put the former to match point, 24-17, before Bella Belen delivered the final blow with a crosscourt hit.
Team captain Belen led NU with 24 points while Alyssa Solomon contributed 15 points built on 13 attacks and two blocks. Erin Pangilinan and Princess Robles added 12 and 10 markers, respectively.
The reigning UAAP champion will face the winner of the game between Adamson and De La Salle in the finals knockout on Saturday, Nov. 19.
“Siguro nag-usap kami na maging mindful pa sa galaw. Kasi parang naging complacement kami nung nakaraang set. Siguro ‘yong pagiging aggressive sa loob ng court and ‘yong ma-lessen namin ‘yong errors and sa blockings,” said Solomon.
For UST’s part, Kim Hernandez tallied 24 points while Pierre Abellana and Regina Jurado chipped in 13 and 10 markers, respectively, as it vies for the bronze medal.