Undefeated De La Salle University braces for a grind-out match against University of Santo Tomas (UST) as it tries to move closer to securing a playoffs spot in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) Season 88 women’s volleyball tournament Wednesday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
Rolling to an 8-0 with a win-loss record, the Lady Spikers carry a huge target on their backs, as other teams are eager to boost their morale by spoiling their bid for an elimination-round sweep and preventing a dangerous stepladder semifinals.
The Golden Spikers pose another serious threat to La Salle in the 1 p.m. match.
Rallying from a five-point deficit in the fourth set, the Lady Spikers survived Adamson University’s challenge 25-19, 17-25, 25-23, 25-23, last Saturday, an indication that the road to a first-ever elims sweep in 12 years will get rougher.
In fact, La Salle is expecting tougher resistance from UST compared to its 25-14, 25-15, 26-24, escape in the first round.
“Obviously, they already knew what to do playing against us after what they saw in the first round. This is where the real battle starts. All teams have already adjusted here in second round. Each one already knows the weaknesses and strengths of each team. We’ll work with our adjustments as well as the adjustments that UST will do,” said Lady Spikers assistant coach Noel Orcullo.
UST, meanwhile, comes in on a three-game winning streak and with renewed confidence after a slow 2-3 start.
Falcons vs Eagles
Assistant coach Yani Fernandez said preparation remains key despite a demanding stretch that includes academic responsibilities for the players.
“We’ll rely on our scouting and team connection,” Fernandez said. “It’s a challenging stretch, but that’s not a reason. We will prepare well and hopefully get the win.”
Angge Poyos, the league’s leading spiker, said UST’s improvement has been driven by a collective effort.
“It’s not just me performing, but the whole team,” Poyos said. “In the second round, everyone needs to step up.”
A victory by UST would create a three-way tie with Far Eastern University and defending champion National University at 6-3, strengthening its bid for a top-two finish.
In the second game at 3 p.m., Adamson (4-4) faces Ateneo (1-7), with the Lady Falcons aiming to stay in the top four and repeat their season-opening sweep of the Blue Eagles.
