Lady Spikers, Maroons seek share of lead

MANILA, Philippines -  Opening day winners La Salle and University of the Philippines gun for a share of the lead with National U as they take on separate opponents today in the UAAP Season 79 women’s volleyball tournament at the San Juan Arena.      

The back-to-back title-seeking Lady Spikers clash with the University of Santo Tomas Tigresses at 4 p.m., while the fancied Lady Maroons collide with the University of the East Lady Warriors at 2 p.m.

La Salle carved out a hard-earned 29-27, 25-22, 25-23 win over Far Eastern University, while UP posted a quick 25-18, 25-11, 25-18 romp of Adamson University last weekend.

Despite losing most of their starting six to graduation, the Lady Spikers’ remained solid as ever with setter Kim Fajardo, Majoy Baron and Kim Dy leading way.

Tipped to be a Final Four contender, the Tigresses stumbled in their opening match, dropping a 20-25, 21-25, 22-25 defeat to the Ateneo Lady Eagles with EJ Laure and Cherry Rondina failing to draw solid backup from the rest of the team.

The Lady Maroons, however, are wary of the Lady Warriors, who are determined to improve their one-win output last season.

Starring skipper Shaya Adorador, UE put up a tough stand against National University before losing steam and the match, 25-18, 20-25, 23-25, 13-25, last week.

Meanne Mendrez and Judith Abil are also making significant contributions for UE, while Roselle Baliton is trying to be at home as the team’s playmaker.    

Erstwhile libero Ayel Estrañero made her presence felt as UP’s new setter, while Kathy Bersola, Diana Carlos and Isa Molde were also impressive in the opener.           

In the featured men’s match-up, De La Salle and UST vie for the first win at 10 a.m., right after the UE-UP tussle at 8 a.m.