Manila: University of Santo Tomas is expected to bounce back in Game 2 of the Shakey's Super League (SSL) Unity Cup best-of-three title series on Saturday and the flawless National University will be ready. Starring Samantha Cantada, the Lady Bulldogs pulled off a 15-25, 25-23, 25-17, 13-25, 15-12 victory over the Tigresses in Game 1 to remain unbeaten in 11 outings. NU also moved to within a win of claiming its fourth consecutive crown.
According to Philippines News Agency, Cantada emphasized the importance of staying focused despite their initial victory, stating, "We won Game 1 but we can't relax. We'll rest but relaxing and being complacent is not allowed because it's not over yet." Cantada, who previously earned the MVP award for leading NU-Nazareth School to its first-ever title in the Shakey's Girls Volleyball Invitational League, was named Best Player in her seniors debut when the Lady Bulldogs won the National Invitationals.
UST aims to tie the series by relying on players Angge Poyos, Regina Jurado, Marga Altea, Xyza Gula, playmaker Cassie Carballo, and senior libero Detdet Pepito. UST head coach Shaq delos Santos expressed optimism, saying, "The series isn't over yet. We'll come back. There's still a chance and that's what we'll try to get."
Supporting Cantada, the Lady Bulldogs will also field Celine Marsh, Chams Maaya, Kaye Bombita, Vange Alinsug, setter Lams Lamina, and defense specialist Shaira Jardio. Meanwhile, Far Eastern University and Adamson University will compete for the bronze medal, also scheduled for Saturday.
