By Kristel Satumbaga
Games Wednesday
(The Arena, San Juan City)
8 a.m. – Adamson vs Ateneo (Men’s)
10 a.m. – NU vs UST (Men’s)
2 p.m. – La Salle vs UP (Women’s)
4 p.m. – UST vs FEU (Women’s)
University of the Philippines turned to skipper Tots Carlos in the crunch and outplayed Adamson, 25-18, 14-25, 25-19, 21-25, 16-14, in UAAP women’s volleyball tournament yesterday at The Arena in San Juan City.
On the brink of defeat after trailing 14-13 in the deciding fifth set, the veteran outside hitter came through with back-to-back off-the-block attacks before Ayelle Estranero sealed the deal with a center spike.
The win improved UP’s record to 3-5 – the same win-loss card of its victim.
Carlos sizzled with 22 points built on 20 hits and two blocks, while Estranero finished with seven points apart from 12 digs.
Isa Molde also shone for the Lady Maroons with 18 points, 16 coming from attacks.
UP coach Godfrey Okumu credited their win to an improved passing and defense.
Revenge was also part of their agenda.
“We don’t want to lose to the same team twice,” said Okumu, referring to their 25-9, 27-25, 25-20 first-round loss to Adamson last Feb. 14.
Jema Galanza and Chiara Permentilla topscored for Adamson with 19 and 17 points, respectively, but the Lady Falcons lost their composure in crucial moments.
In men’s play, Adamson and NU bested their foes in contrasting fashions to hike their records to 3-5 and 7-1, respectively.
The Falcons blasted the UE Warriors, 25-20, 25-17, 25-15, while the Bulldogs survived the Far Eastern University Tamaraws, 19-25, 25-13, 24-26, 25-20, 18-16.
NU is now tied for the lead with defending champion Ateneo.