The NU Lady Bulldogs ushered in their post-Bella Belen era with a statement victory and a new gem in Sam Cantada. The multi-time champions outlasted the UST Golden Tigresses, 25-23, 25-19, 23-25, 26-24, in the UAAP Season 88 women’s volleyball tournament at the SM Mall of Asia Arena on Sunday.
With Belen no longer in the lineup, the Lady Bulldogs found a new go-to scorer in Sam Cantada. The Season 87 High School Girls’ Volleyball MVP stepped up in crucial moments, particularly in the fourth set.
Sam Cantada Catches Fire
Trailing 16-20, Sam Cantada caught fire and scored seven of NU’s final 10 points to turn the tide and seal the match in the Bulldogs’ favor.
“Sa totoo lang, I know a lot of people na chamba ‘yung kay Sam, but I’ve seen it so many times already, so it’s her,” said Lady Bulldogs head coach Regine Diego, who made her debut at the helm of the seniors squad.
“It’s her character. She’s a really good fighter, lalo sa crucial games. So, I didn’t doubt her, and I was so sure that she’s going to make it hanggang sa dulo.”
Cantada finished with a game-high 21 points built on 17 attacks, 3 aces, and 1 block, along with 14 excellent receptions. Team captain Vange Alinsug added 18 points, while Arah Panique contributed 15 markers.
For the Golden Tigresses, Angge Poyos paced the team with 18 points on 15 attacks and three blocks. Avril Bron, Xyza Gula, and Julia Balingit scored 10 points each.
The Lady Bulldogs aim to build on their opening win when they face the Adamson University Lady Falcons on Wednesday, February 18, at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion. Meanwhile, the Golden Tigresses seek to bounce back as they prepare for a clash against the De La Salle University Lady Spikers on Sunday, February 22, at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.
