By NIKOLE JAVIER
University of the Philippines recovered from its opening-set stumble to turn back University of the East, 21-25, 25-18, 25-19, 25-20, and pick up its first win in the UAAP Season 85 women’s volleyball tournament on Sunday, March 5, at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.
The embattled Fighting Maroons finally ended their 0-2 misery at the expense of the Lady Warriors, who, in turn, absorbed their third straight loss in as many games.
UP, which has raised issues concerning its team manager dated last Jan. 29 and circulated online on Wednesday, March 1, managed to bring itself in the win column despite the controversies surrounding them.
Nina Ytang erupted for a career-high all-around performance of 20 points built on 12 attacks, seven blocks and an ace.
Stephanie Bustrillo also came through with 16 points off 10 attacks, three blocks and three aces, while Alyssa Bertolano added 10 in their offensive production.
After dropping the first set, UP would go on to dictate the tone of the next two sets to gain the upper hand over UE.
“Siyempre very thankful kasi iyon nga, unang panalo. Ang dami pa rin naming mga kulang kanina pero of course kailangan namin ma-appreciate kung gaano ka-okay iyong ginalaw namin. And hopefully, mag-work hard pa kami sa susunod sa mga susunod na games. Sobrang competitive ng mga next games, so ready lang kami,” said UP head coach Shaq delos Santos.
Janeca Lana led the Lady Warriors with 14 points, while Vanessa Bangayan chipped in 13 in the losing effort, as they slid to a 0-3 record in the standings.