Ateneo scrapes by UP in 5-set thriller

MANILA, Philippines – The Ateneo Lady Eagles came close to suffering their first defeat in Season 77 of the UAAP women’s volleyball tournament but managed to hold off the UP Lady Maroons, 25-18, 22-25, 25-20, 15-25, 15-11, on Sunday, January 4, at the San Juan Arena.

Reigning MVP Alyssa Valdez delivered another strong performance for the defending champions by putting up 25 points, while Bea De Leon recorded 12 and Amy Ahomiro added 11.

Nicole Tiamzon led UP with 22 points, and Kathy Bersola added 12.

After the Lady Eagles won the first set, UP took an early lead in the second period thanks to a number of conversions by Tiamzon. Ateneo then committed a couple of errors, giving UP a 7-point lead that helped them tie the contest at one set apiece.

ADMU continued to struggle in set no. 3 as they faced an early 4-point hole before scoring 16 of the game’s next 23 points and cruising to another set win. UP came back with a vengeance in the fourth set, taking a 16-12 lead midway through to tie the contest and force a deciding fifth set.

Both squads exchanged conversions in the game’s final set with Ateneo clinging on to an 11-10 lead at one point. The Lady Eagles scored 4 of the game’s final 5 points to clinch the victory.

Ateneo will aim to improve to 6-0 this season by taking on UE before their finals rematch with La Salle, while UP will aim to bounce back against Adamson on Wednesday, January 7. – Rappler.com