After dropping the first two sets, defending champion NU Lady Bulldogs showcased their championship resolve, completing a reverse sweep of the FEU Lady Tamaraws, 17-25, 16-25, 25-19, 25-21, 15-12, in the UAAP Season 88 women’s volleyball tournament at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.
Trailing early, NU found stability in the third set as veteran setter Lams Lamina took over playmaking duties from Abegail Pono. Lamina orchestrated a more balanced offense, with Arah Panique erupting for 10 points in the frame to spark the comeback and force a deciding fifth set.
NU Completes Stunning Turnaround for Win
Deadlocked at 12-all in the final set, Alexa Mata broke the tie before Panique delivered back-to-back points to cap the stunning turnaround and keep the Lady Bulldogs unbeaten.
“I never really doubted the players na hindi nila makukuha. I know they’re going to fight until the end because this is not the first time na nangyari sa amin. I kept on telling them this is not new to them, sanay tayo dito, kunin natin ‘yung game,” said Lady Bulldogs head coach Regine Diego.
Panique poured in a career-high 27 points built on 23 attacks, 3 blocks, and 1 ace. Team captain Vange Alinsug added 15 markers, along with 15 excellent receptions and 13 excellent digs. After strong performances in NU’s first two matches, Sam Cantada was limited to 11 points but contributed 11 excellent receptions.
For FEU, team captain Gerzel Petallo paced the squad with 14 points on 12 attacks and 2 blocks, while also tallying 22 excellent receptions and 12 excellent digs. Clarisse Loresco chipped in 12 points, highlighted by 4 blocks, while Alyzza Devosora added 11 markers and 16 excellent receptions. Jaz Ellarina contributed 10 points.
The NU Lady Bulldogs aim to remain perfect when they face the UP Fighting Maroons on Saturday, February 28, at 5:00 p.m. at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion. Meanwhile, the FEU Lady Tamaraws look to regroup as they take on the Adamson Lady Falcons on Sunday, March 1, at 3:00 p.m. at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
