After surviving a tough five-set battle with the FEU Lady Tamaraws, La Salle Lady Spikers star Angel Canino found herself in admiration not just of the win, but of her former teammate’s growth.
The Lady Spikers stayed unbeaten through 11 games in UAAP Season 88 after escaping the Lady Tamaraws, 25-17, 25-22, 23-25, 19-25, 15-10, at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, but it was FEU captain Gerzel Petallo who drew praise from the La Salle star.
Petallo, returning from a right shoulder injury that sidelined her for three games, sparked FEU’s fightback and nearly led a reverse sweep.
“Sobrang proud kasi sa pagkakilala ko kay Gerz before nung Zobel kami, mahiyain ’yun,” said Canino of her former teammate in high school. “And to think na nag-transform siya sa pagiging matapang, ’yung walang takot, nakaka-proud kasi ginawa niya ’yun sa sarili niya.”
Canino and Petallo Have Shared History
The two shared history as teammates at De La Salle Zobel under current Lady Spikers head coach Tina Salak, making their on-court duel even more meaningful.
In the match, Canino powered La Salle with 24 points, 14 excellent digs, and 10 excellent receptions, while Petallo delivered 14 points, 18 excellent receptions, and nine digs in her return.
“Ayun, talaga ang hanga ko sa kanya kasi sa lahat ng laro, pinapakita niya na kaya niya,” Canino added. “Kahit galing sa injury, pinapakita niya na kaya niyang iangat ’yung team niya.”
Despite Petallo’s effort, FEU fell to a 6-5 record, tied with the Adamson Lady Falcons in the race for the remaining Final Four spots.
La Salle’s Lesson
La Salle, meanwhile, not only preserved its perfect record but also secured a twice-to-beat advantage, though not without lessons learned.
“Kailangan hindi kami magpa-complacent sa lahat ng nangyayari sa team namin,” ended Canino. “Nakuha na namin ’yung first two sets, isang set na lang, pero medyo nawala ’yung tiyaga namin. ’Yun talaga ’yung biggest lesson.”
Even in victory, the Lady Spikers were reminded that consistency, not just talent, will define their championship push.
