QUEZON CITY, Philippines — Adamson University made a formidable statement in the UAAP Season 87 women’s volleyball tournament, pulling off a remarkable upset against defending champions National University. This victory at the Smart Araneta Coliseum has major implications for the fight for the top two spots in the Final Four.
Demonstrating unwavering belief in their potential, the Lady Falcons emerged victorious with scores of 25-23, 15-25, 28-26, 25-22. Rookie-captain Shaina Nitura was a standout, delivering an impressive 32 points, her fourth such performance this season. Her leadership was pivotal, particularly in the absence of NU’s ace hitter Alyssa Solomon, who was sidelined due to a left ankle sprain.
“This victory is a significant boost for us. We knew what we were capable of, and today we showed it,” said Lady Falcons coach JP Yude. Nitura’s resilience was evident as she urged her teammates to maintain faith amidst recent challenges that tested their confidence.
Despite entering the match ranked seventh, the victory elevated Adamson to 4-7, keeping their playoff dreams alive. Their triumph over the Bulldogs, now 9-2, has also left the door open for La Salle, Far Eastern University (FEU), and University of Santo Tomas (UST) to vie for top spots with only weeks remaining in the elimination phase.
“We are determined. With three games remaining, we believe in our potential to further disrupt the standings,” Yude proclaimed. The focus now shifts to their crucial game against FEU, who are riding high after defeating the University of the Philippines with a 25-21, 25-16, 14-25, 26-24 win, thanks to Faida Bakanke’s performance.
FEU’s coach, Tina Salak, expressed pride in her team’s resilience despite the intense pressure. Their win ties them with UST at 7-4, but the Golden Tigresses have a slight advantage due to set ratios. Both teams have three vital games remaining, crucial for securing their positions.
Adamson’s coach Yude remains confident. “We’ll face tough teams, but I trust my players completely. We can challenge anyone,” he stated. The Lady Falcons aim to give their best against formidable opponents like the Tamaraws, Lady Spikers, and Fighting Maroons, contenders who have much at stake in this tightly contested tournament.
With every point crucial, the UAAP Season 87 women’s volleyball tournament promises intense competition and dramatic shifts in standings as teams strive for excellence and the coveted Final Four spots.
