De La Salle University’s Angel Canino #12 against University of the Philippines in UAAP Season 88. UAAP Media.
MANILA (UPDATED) — De La Salle University secured a return trip to the Final Four after sweeping University of the Philippines in their second-round meeting in UAAP Season 88 women’s volleyball.
The Lady Spikers extended their unbeaten streak to 10 following their 25-15, 25-18, 25-20 victory over the Fighting Maroons on Palm Sunday at the University of Santo Tomas Quadricentennial Pavilion in Manila.
The Lady Spikers are semifinals-bound for the 16th consecutive time, or since Season 71 (2008-09), with usual suspects Angel Canino, who fired 15 points, six digs, and two receptions, and Shevana Laput, who had 16 points, leading the Taft-based squad.
“We’re happy na sigurado na kami sa Final Four, but hindi pa kami titigil kasi marami pa kaming mga games,” said Canino, who delivered the closing blows for La Salle to complete the sweep.
Eshana Nunag was also solid with 15 excellent sets, two points, and three digs, while Shane Reterta and Katrina del Castillo had nine and eight points, respectively. But it was Canino who took charge when it mattered most.
It was only a two-point contest in the third frame as the Fighting Maroons threatened to stay alive, but Canino converted a kill before completing an ace to put the Lady Spikers at match point, 24-20. Fina Ali then committed a costly error that ended the match.
“Magfo-focus lang kami sa kung ano pa ang pwede naming gawin or baguhin pa,” downplayed Canino, emphasizing that they should avoid complacency with only four games left in their elimination round assignments.
On the other hand, State U fell two games below the .500 mark with six defeats in 10 matches, a crucial setback as the Final Four race tightens.
Nina Ytang led UP with eight points, while Kianne Olango and Jelai Gajero chipped in seven markers each.