UP volley belles roar to third win

MANILA, Philippines — Drawing inspiration from its men’s basketball counterpart, the spirited University of the Philippines volleyball team spoiled Eya Laure’s big game for Santo Tomas, carving out a 25-21, 23-25, 25-21, 25-22 win to stay unbeaten in the UAAP Season 84 at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City yesterday.

Jewel Encarnacion flashed an all-around brilliance with 16 points, 14 excellent receptions and 11 digs as the Fighting Maroons improved to 3-0 for their best start since Season 79.

Alyssa Bertolano added 15 markers on 10 attacks, three blocks and two aces while Niña Ytang, Lorie Bernardo and Jaila Atienza had nine each for UP.

“It was not an easy game. UST is a very strong team. They are very experienced and they have a good coaching staff who would know how to read a game. So, it’s a win, yes, but it wasn’t easy for us. We really worked hard for this and I hope the girls will continue fighting the same way,” said coach Godfrey Okumu.

UP previously defeated University of the East, 25-19, 25-23, 25-23, and Far Eastern U, 25-12, 25-22, 24-26, 27-29, 15-11, in a hot start as the tournament’s dark horse.

In the second match, Chenie Tagaod sizzled for 20 points as FEU barged into the win column with a close 19-25, 25-15, 25-20, 17-25, 15-10 win over UE.

Later, National U flaunted a show of force in a 25-22, 25-15, 25-19 win over La Salle to stay abreast with UP.