San juan: De La Salle University defeated Ateneo de Manila University, 25-13, 25-12, 25-18, to remain unbeaten after 12 matches in the UAAP Season 88 volleyball tournament at the FilOil Center in San Juan on Saturday. Angel Canino, Amie Provido, and Lilay Del Castillo led the Lady Spikers, who earned the No. 1 seed in the next round.

According to Philippines News Agency, Canino finished with 15 points on 13 attacks and two blocks, alongside nine receptions and three digs. Provido added 12 points on eight attacks, three blocks, and one ace, while Del Castillo had nine points on six attacks, two blocks, and one ace.

La Salle's remaining matches in the elimination round are against winless University of the East (UE) at the University of Santo Tomas (UST) Quadricentennial Pavilion on April 15, and defending champion National University at the SM Mall of Asia Arena on April 19. Ateneo briefly held the lead, 15-14, in the third set before La Salle fought back to wrap up the match in one hour and 18 minutes.

'That's right, in the third set, they relaxed a bit. The kids lost focus. Hopefully, that won't happen again next time. That's what we always remind them to always be focused, never lose it. As much as possible, finish it, finish it quickly. At times when they lose focus, and when they know they're ahead, they relax. You just have to keep your focus on the game," La Salle assistant coach Noel Orcullo said.

La Salle captain Shevana Laput chipped in nine points and nine digs, while Shane Reterta had six points, four digs, and three receptions. Meanwhile, rookie Ana Hermosura delivered 10 points, eight receptions, and six digs for the Blue Eagles, who took their fifth straight loss for a 1-11 record. Ateneo will face UE at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion on April 18.