Endgame maturity keys NU’s Game 1 win over Ateneo

MANILA, Philippines – No Jaja Santiago, no problem for National University.

The Ateneo de Manila Lady Eagles were at match point in Game 1 of their best-of-three series for the 13th Shakey’s V-League Collegiate Conference championship when Santiago nailed a spike. However, it was her turn to serve in the next rotation.

The projected disadvantage for NU did not materialize as the Lady Bulldogs saved two match points and wasted two of their own before Aiko Urdas nailed a powerful spike to get NU ahead of the finals.

“Kinabahan ako hindi dahil wala si Jaja sa harap, kinabahan ako kasi dikitan yung laro. Hindi ko na napansin na nakaupo na si Jaja,” assistant coach Edjet Mabbayad said. “May tiwala naman ako sa kung sino nandoon kanina.”

Santiago echoed her coach’s statement but commended Ateneo’s resiliency especially in the rubber set.

“Sobrang lakas ng Ateneo. Wala akong masabi sa kanila sobrang tibay ng blockings nila, depensa. Umiral yung teamwork namin kaya nakuha namin yung game,” she said.

After losing the fourth set, Ateneo uncorked a 6-1 blitz for a comfortable cushion. But the Lady Bulldogs fought back and tied the set at 13-all, thanks to the heroics of Santiago.

The 6-foot-5 middle blocker hopes they can finish their title defense on Wednesday but she is aware of the fightback they will receive from the Lady Eagles.

“Sana makuha na namin yung game sa Wednesday. Hindi rin naman kasi basta basta yung Ateneo,” added Santiago.