By Kristel Satumbaga
Games Saturday
(The Arena, San Juan City)
8 a.m. – Adamson vs UE (Men’s)
10 a.m. – NU vs FEU (Men’s)
2 p.m. – Adamson vs UP (Women’s)
4 p.m. – NU vs La Salle (Women’s)
A nice win deserves another.
That’s exactly what University of the East did yesterday as the Lady Warriors pulled off a shock 25-23, 18-25, 28-26, 26-24 win over many-time champion University of Santo Tomas Tigresses at the start of the UAAP women’s volleyball second round eliminations at The Arena in San Juan City.
Still in high spirits following a five-set win over the Adamson Lady Falcons last week, the Lady Warriors played with more vigor and energy through the inspired plays of libero Kath Arado to post their second straight victory after a 0-6 start.
Arado was almost everywhere as she finished with 32 receptions and 28 digs to help lift UE to its first victory over UST since the Final Four format was introduced in 1993.
Trailing for most parts of the match, the Lady Warriors gained the initiative after throwing the Tigresses out of their comfort zone with their rock-solid defense.
An ecstatic Rod Roque, UE’s athletic director and interim coach, celebrated with his stalwarts as they posted their first back-to-back win since 2012.
Mary Ann Mendrez shone for the Lady Warriors with 21 points highlighted by 15 kills even as Shaya Adorador contributed 13 attacks and two aces for 15 points. Judith Abil also added 10 points and 12 digs.