De La Salle bounced back in convincing fashion at the expense of the also-ran University of the Philippines, 25-15, 25-16, 25-16, in the second round of the UAAP Season 85 women’s volleyball tournament Sunday, April 16, at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig City.
The Lady Spikers, who were coming off an upset loss at the hands of the University of Santo Tomas Golden Tigresses before the two-week break, improved their record to 10-1 and secured their place in the semifinals where they are strong contenders to grab the twice-to-beat advantage.
Reigning champion National University Lady Bulldogs’ win against the Far Eastern University Lady Tamaraws earlier gave La Salle the first spot in the playoffs.
Super rookie Angel Canino scattered her team-high 17 points for La Salle on 13 attacks, two blocks and two service aces, while middle blocker Thea Gagate chipped in 11 points off nine attacks and two blocks.
The Lady Spikers dictated the pace throughout the match despite pulling away late in the third set to complete the swift victory.
"After the game nung sa UST, yun din yung sinabi sa kanila (players) na kahit papaano makaranas kung paano babangon. After ng Holy Week pinaalala sa kanila kalimutan na yung nangyari, ito kailangan big bounce back ba. At least, they showed it," said De La Salle assistant coach Noel Orcullo.
Steph Bustrillo, for her part, paced the Fighting Maroons as the lone bright spot with 10 points as they slid 1-10 in the standings, with no chance of a Final Four spot this season.