By Kristel Satumbaga
Games Saturday
(Mall of Asia Arena)
9 a.m. – UP vs UE (men’s)
10:30 a.m. – UP vs UE (women’s)
2 p.m. – Ateneo vs La Salle (men’s)
4 p.m. – Ateneo vs La Salle (women’s)
Defending champion Ateneo shoots for a second straight win when it takes on archrival La Salle Saturday in the UAAP Season 82 women’s volleyball at the Mall of Asia Arena.
In this file photo, Ateneo’s Kat Tolentino, left, and Jaja Maraguinot celebrate after scoring against University of the Philippines. Tolentino and Faith Nisperos (not in photo) are expected to lead the Lady Eagles anew against rival La Salle Lady Spikers. (UAAP Images)
The match is set at 4 p.m. with the Lady Eagles aiming to end a six-game skid against the Lady Spikers, who are seeking a strong start following last season’s Final Four exit.
Coach Oliver Almadro is hoping to steer Ateneo to the early lead after starting its title-retention bid on a high note with a 25-23, 25-17, 25-23 victory over University of the Philippines last Wednesday.
“Of course, first game lang ito. We will not stop here. One game does not determine our character. We’re just happy na nakapaglaro na kami ulit and won our first game,” he said.
The veteran-duo of Kat Tolentino and Faith Nisperos is expected to fuel the Lady Eagles once again after combing for 25 points, with support coming from comebacking Jho Maraguinot and Jules Samonte.
La Salle is determined to extend its mastery over Ateneo despite a heartbreaking 2019 that saw coach Ramil de Jesus’ squad miss the Finals for the first time in 11 years.
“This year, we’re very hungry,” said Tin Tiamzon.
Though parading with a young core following the departure of Des Cheng, the Lady Spikers still boast of depth with sophomore spiker Jolina Dela Cruz and veterans Tin Ogunsanya, setter Michelle Cobb and libero CJ Saga.
They will parade fresh talents in 6-foot-2 middle hitter Thea Gagate, 6-foot opposite spiker Leila Cruz and libero Justine Jazareno.
The men’s counterpart of both teams will meet at 2 p.m. after University of the East and UP collide in the both divisions at 9 a.m. and 10:30 a.m.
Source: Manila Bulletin
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