Pasay city: De La Salle University seeks a first perfect season in 22 years and a 13th UAAP women's volleyball title against National University (NU) in Game 2 at Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City on Saturday. The Lady Spikers will try to end Lady Bulldogs' two-year reign at 5 p.m. In the men's division, NU will aim for a sixth straight title against Far Eastern University at 12 noon.
According to Philippines News Agency, La Salle, unbeaten in the elimination round, took Game 1 (25-23, 25-18, 25-18) on Wednesday. It was the first time that NU lost in straight sets in a finals match. The Lady Spikers also swept the eliminations in Season 76 (2014) but archrivals Ateneo de Manila University Eagles went on to claim the crown. La Salle coach Ramil de Jesus expressed his determination, emphasizing that the team is preparing for whoever wins the championship. "This is the situation. This is our chance to come back," he said in a news release Friday.
Angel Canino, who had 17 points and nine digs for La Salle in Game 1, acknowledged the challenge ahead. "NU will really fight. We know they will study us, the same way we will study them," she remarked. NU coach Regine Diego stressed the importance of mental strength, saying, "Everything in the championship is more mental than physical."
Coach Dante Alinsunurin, aiming for an eighth championship with the Bulldogs, praised setter Greg Ancheta's performance in Game 1, which went the distance. He noted the improvement in trust among players, particularly in Ancheta. Also expected to deliver for NU are national team standouts Buds Buddin, Leo Ordiales, Jade Disquitado, and Peng Taguibolos.
