MANILA, Philippines — Barring any cancellation of the matches due to the COVID-19 menace, La Salle shoots for a share of the lead with NU when it meets dangerous UP in the 82nd UAAP women’s volleyball tournament today at the MOA Arena.
The Lady Spikers will come off a masterful domination of reigning champion Ateneo Lady Eagles over the weekend when they face the Lady Maroons at 3:30 p.m.
In the curtain raiser at 2 p.m., La Salle and UP try to bounce back in the men’s division after suffering contrasting defeats last week.
Spearheaded by impressive rookies and steady veterans, La Salle decked Ateneo, 25-17, 17-25, 25-17, 25-15. It was a strong message from the team that missed the finals for the first time in 10 years last season.
“That’s a good win. That’s huge for our confidence heading into the match versus UP,” said coach Ramil de Jesus as the Lady Spikers, including eight rookies, survived first-game jitters with the huge win.
Against the Lady Maroons, La Salle has added motivation, recalling a bitter 0-2 sweep in the 81st UAAP elims that contributed to its failure to defend the throne last year.
“We did not win even once against them last season so we have to come into the match more prepared. I also think we have a better and more complete squad now to match up with them,” said De Jesus, who expects a stronger performance from rookies Justine Jazareno, Thea Gagate, Jyne Soreno and Leila Cruz.
“I have high expectations from our new players and I know they have way more to offer.”
Veterans Aduke Ogunsanya, Michelle Cobb, Jolina dela Cruz and Tin Tiamzon will be there to guide the La Salle neophytes.