University of the Philippines defeated University of the East, 25-15, 25-16, 25-22, to improve its record in the V-League Women’s Collegiate Challenge at the Paco Arena in Manila on Wednesday.
Kianne Louise Olongo led the Fighting Maroons with 14 points on 11 attacks and four blocks, while skipper Ma. Dannica Celis contributed 11 points, including four blocks.
Kassandra Doering chipped in seven attacks and two aces, while Irish Anika Jaboneta also had nine points and 11 digs for UP, which bounced back from a 13-25, 22-25, 21-25 loss against defending champion College of Saint Benilde last August 11 to claim its third win in five outings.
"We're still looking for that cohesiveness, 70 percent of the team is rookies, so we have to maximize the strength and find that strength. Good thing that there's [V-League] so we can see what else do we need. Again, this is not yet our 100 percent, we are still 50 or 40 percent. But what's important is the players know their role. They know their role, they start knowing their role, so that in the future games, they will be having that much-needed confidence," commented UP head coach Oliver Almadro after the one hour and 20-minute encounter.
The Fighting Maroons will try to keep their momentum against the University of Santo Tomas Golden Tigresses on September 11.
"Well, normal preparation, the UAAP is still far. The V-League is an avenue to prepare and yes, UST is a top contender, but great teams will just push us forward. As far as we reach, if they push us forward, it's an advantage for us. Normal preparation, see where our cohesiveness is, and remind players to know their roles," he added.
KC Cepeda scored 10 points on nine attacks and an ace, while Jenalyn Umayan had nine points for the Lady Warriors, who absorbed their second straight setback after bowing to the Golden Tigresses last Aug. 4.
Kayce Balingit scored five points, while Nahomie Mpata added five points, including three blocks for UE, which will face FEU on Aug. 25. (PNA)
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