UAAP volleyball: NU bounces back with 5-set win over Ateneo

UAAP volleyball: NU bounces back with 5-set win over Ateneo

MANILA, Philippines–Far from their desired form, the National University Lady Bulldogs had to scrape past the Ateneo Blue Eagles, 25-17, 24-26, 26-28, 25-19, 15-7, in a marathon first win at the UAAP Season 86 women’s volleyball.

Bella Belen redeemed herself by compiling 21 points highlighted by 18 attacks apart from 24 digs, 10 receptions and three blocks in an all-around performance that negated a mediocre outing in their season-opening defeat against University of Santo Tomas.

“That defeat motivated us to play better. We are going through a difficult process, but I’m really happy that other players in our team got the opportunity to show their potential,’’ said Belen.

SCHEDULE: UAAP Season 86 volleyball first round

Backstopping Belen, the tournament’s first rookie-MVP in Season 84, was hitter Evangeline Alinsug, who fired 19 attacks, as well as middle blocker Minierva Maaya and Alyssa Solomon.

Camilla Lamina delivered 23 excellent sets, Shaira Mae Jardio contributed 21 digs and 17 reception as the Lady Bulldogs came close to giving up the contest after Ateneo seized control after three sets.

“Our team is just beginning to recover (from a long pre-season activity). We still lack the recovery needed for us to play the way we used to play,’’ said NU coach Miguel Norman.

The Lady Bulldogs won the University Games last month in Dipolog before embarking on a series of practice games against top clubs prior to the start of the season

READ: UAAP volleyball: Ateneo’s long-sleeved jerseys just a one time thing

“It was obvious that we were not yet playing that same way before, but I saw in the fifth set a glimpse of what we’re capable of. We just have to take it slow,’’ said Alinsug.

The Blue Eagles dropped their second match in a row but found another

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