Adamson University made quick work of University of the Philippines Integrated School, 25-13, 25-14, for a rousing start in Pool D of the 2024 Shakey’s Girls Volleyball Invitational League (GVIL) Wednesday at the Adamson University Gym main court.
The reigning UAAP champions put on a 55-minute volleyball clinic as head coach JP Yude gave all his available players minutes and they all delivered.
Samantha Cantada led Adamson with seven points while UAAP Season 86 MVP Shaina Nitura finished with six markers to lead 10 others who scored in Adamson’s dominating debut in the tournament backed by Shakey’s Pizz Parlor, Eurotel, Victory Liner, Smart Sports, Mikasa, Team Rebel Sports and Robinsons Malls.
Meanwhile, De La Salle-Lipa clawed its way back from a set down to stun feisty newcomer Bethel Academy, 18-25, 25-23, 25-20, in their Pool A encounter.
The Green Stallions brushed off a shaky start before discovering their rhythm in the last two frames to turn back the Bethelites behind the trio of Vida Caringal, Raizah Mamailao and Althea Sumague.
Caringal and Mamailao scored 13 each and combined for 20 of La Salle-Lipa’s 37 attack points while Sumague had 10 markers.
“I’m very grateful that we were able to get our first win in our first game. Actually, kaya very grateful din, especially yung panalo, kasi yung nakalaban namin ay usual kalaro, hindi naman kalaban, kalaro, because in most of our tournaments nagkikita kami talaga. Kaya nakabawi,” Green Stallions coach Imelda Mendoza said.
Middle blocker Shane Raterta had 15 points while skipper Atasha Doroja finished with 13 markers for Bethel Academy.
Action continues today with five exciting matches at the Arellano University-Taft. All games in the SGVL, organized by Athletic Events and Sports Management, Inc., will air via livestream on Smart Sports, Aliw 23 (free TV), Blast TV (digital regional) and Solar Sports (cable).
