By MARK REY MONTEJO
In a much-awaited duel between two of the league’s biggest stars, it was University of Santo Tomas’ Angge Poyos who prevailed, outshining La Salle’s Angel Canino.
The humble but power-hitting Poyos exploded for 28 points to the lead the Golden Tigresses to a pulsating 25-12, 22-25, 13-25, 25-23, 15-13 win over the Lady Spikers in the UAAP Season 87 women’s volleyball at Mall of Asia Arena Wednesday evening, Feb. 26.
Poyos and Canino expected lived up to their status and hype, coming through with variety of power spikes plus some delicate shots much to the delight of 9,518 cheering fans.
In the end, it was Poyos, last year’s top rookie, who emerged with the sweetest smile.
And Poyos credited team’s steely nerves and good rapport inside the court as they refused to wilt under grinding pressure especially in the fourth.
“Sa game na ‘to talagang pinakita namin kung ano kami, and ‘yong composure namin sa loob ng court ‘yon talaga ‘yong nagdala and communication ‘yon ‘yong pinaka-importante,” said Poyos,
“Nawala man kami no’ng second set pero bumalik lang kami sa sistema and nagtiwala lang kami isa’t-isa,” she added.
“No’ng two points away ‘yong La Salle, ni-remind kolang ‘yong teammates ko na i-compose ‘yong sarili,” Poyos continued. “And kumapit kasi fifth set na, kaya [kailangan] ibigay na ‘yong best namin.”
The fifth set was more dramatic, but Poyos and company showed they had the heart to weather the storm.
“Buti nalang po may puso kaming lumaban no’ng fifth set,” said Regine Jurado.
Canino was also on target, firing 25 points, but Poyos had a strong support from her teammates.
Poyos’ 28-point effort was built on 24 attacks, three blocks and one ace with 16 excellent digs while Jurado contributed 17 points.
Detdet Pepito was also spectacular all-game long with 24 excellent digs, 16 excellent receptions and two excellent sets – a statline that helped the Espana-based crew to a 2-1 win-loss record.
Canino also finished with 17 excellent digs and 16 excellent receptions. Shevana Laput and Baby Jane Soreno delivered 18 and 10 points, respectively.
