National University (NU) stamped its dominance anew, posting a convincing 25-19, 25-18, 25-19 victory over De La Salle University to retain its title in Game 2 of the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) Season 87 women’s volleyball tournament best-of-three finals series late Wednesday at the Mall of Asia Arena.
Newly-crowned Most Valuable Player (MVP) Bella Belen spearheaded the onslaught while Alyssa Solomon provided solid support to help the Lady Bulldogs win their third crown in four years while beating the same team that denied them the crown in Season 85 two years ago.
Prior to enjoying their glory years, NU — a founding UAAP member — won the championships in Seasons 16 and 19 before suffering a 65-year title drought.
Now a three-time MVP, Belen asserted her might with 17 attacks and a block while Solomon chipped in 13 markers to make sure that their final game for the Lady Bulldogs will be truly memorable.
“I’m very thankful to our seniors because the chemistry we built in just eight months came together so quickly, thanks to their leadership, especially Bella, who’s been exceptional in handling the team,” NU coach Sherwin Meneses said.
Vange Alinsug, who had a superb performance with a career-high 21 points in Game 1, delivered 10 hits while libero Shaira Jardio posted 21 digs and 12 receives to share the Finals MVP honors, a fitting reward to the school that will enter into a transition due to the graduation of Belen, Solomon, Sheena Toring and Erin Pangilinan.
Meanwhile, NU displayed its championship pedigree, outlasting Far Eastern University (FEU) in a rollercoaster 25-20, 22-25, 25-15, 18-25, 15-11 battle to force a Game 3 in the men’s best-of-three finals duel.
The four-time defending champions avoided elimination and derailed the Tamaraws’ quest for a record 26th UAAP men’s volleyball crown.
Down 5-8 in the final set, NU mounted a spirited comeback, starting with a costly attack error by FEU’s Mikko Espartero.
NU coach Dante Alinsunurin then made a bold move by sending in service specialist Jonas Hernandez for Obed Mukaba — a gamble that paid off.
Hernandez delivered under pressure, firing tough serves as FEU committed three straight errors. A kill from Michaelo Buddin pushed NU ahead, 10-8.
Though the Tamaraws managed to tie the set at 10, the Bulldogs responded with a strong 5-1 finishing kick, capped by a solo block from Jade Disquitado on Dryx Saavedra to seal the win.
Buddin led NU with 20 points in his first start after a four-game absence, while Mukaba had a career night with 20 points off 14 attacks and six blocks. Leo Ordiales added 13 points, and Leo Aringo chipped in 10 points and 17 excellent receptions.
Saavedra carried the load for FEU with 24 points and six digs. Amet Bituin and Absin contributed 10 and nine points, respectively, but the Tamaraws struggled to find consistent support.
The winner-take-all duel is set on Saturday also at the same venue.