By NIKOLE JAVIER
National University is looking to secure the first twice-to-beat berth in the Final Four as it tackles Far Eastern University when they wrap up their respective elimination round campaigns in the UAAP Season 86 women’s volleyball tournament on Wednesday, April 24, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
The Lady Bulldogs and the Lady Tamaraws lock horns in the final offering of the weekday action at 4 p.m. before also-ran Ateneo Blue Eagles and Adamson Lady Falcons meet at 2 p.m.
Games Wednesday
(Smart Araneta Coliseum)
2 p.m. – Ateneo vs AdU (Women)
4 p.m. – NU vs FEU (Women)
NU has been playing great since the start of the second round, winning its last six outings to improve 11-2 in the standings, creating a three-way tie with defending champion La Salle and University of Santo Tomas.
A win for the Lady Bulldogs does not only mean another rare second round sweep, but also earns them an outright twice-to-beat advantage with the Lady Tamaraws playing spoiler in the scenario.
Another important game ensues on Saturday, April 27, as La Salle and UST face each other to determine who will claim the last semifinal bonus and set the stage for the final standings.
The trio of Bella Belen, Alyssa Solomon and Vange Alinsug has been consistent all playoffs long, taking turns in leading while carrying the bulk of the team’s offensive fight.
But they can’t belittle the Lady Tamaraws.
For one, the Lady Tamaraws (9-4) are also in peak form, having won their last five games highlighted by a massive upset win over UST.
Rookie Faida Bakanke, who was only averaging nine points in the first round, has been hitting the marks at the right time with brilliant performances.
The result doesn’t really affect FEU’s standings in any way as it is already locked in at the No. 4 spot, but gaining confidence weighs much more in its Final Four campaign.
Meanwhile, Ateneo (4-9) and Adamson (3-10) are hoping to close out the season on a bright note.
With no actual breakthroughs to make for themselves, Ateneo continued to cut its season short. Only this time under the guidance of its new head coach Sergio Veloso.
After their impressive Final Four appearance in Season 85, Adamson was almost unresponsive throughout the eliminations – no thanks to the departure of their star players.
