MANILA – Rookie standout Samantha Cantada turned in a stellar performance as National University overcame the University of the Philippines in a grueling five-set battle, 24-26, 25-17, 21-25, 25-18, 15-8, in the UAAP Season 88 women’s volleyball tournament at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
Cantada erupted for a career-best 32 points, highlighted by 27 spikes, three blocks, and two aces, leading the Lady Bulldogs to a crucial bounce-back win.
The triumph improved NU’s record to 6-2, keeping them in second place behind league-leading De La Salle University.
NU head coach Regine Diego welcomed the win, describing it as a strong response following their earlier defeat to the Fighting Maroons.
“It’s a challenging time for all teams because the pressure is higher and we need more wins. But what drives us is playing together,” Diego said.
The Lady Bulldogs displayed resilience in the fifth set, erasing a 2-5 deficit before pulling away to close out the match in just over two hours.
Cantada credited her teammates for the victory, noting that her scoring output was the result of a collective effort. She also tallied 18 excellent receptions and 13 digs in an all-around performance.
Arah Ellah Panique added 19 points, while Minierva Maaya chipped in nine. Setter Abe Pono contributed 21 excellent sets along with five points and seven digs, while Shaira Jardio anchored the defense with 17 receptions and 17 digs.
UP was led by Jelai Gajero with 22 points, followed by Kianne Olango with 20. Bienne Bansil and Niña Ytang contributed 13 points apiece as the Fighting Maroons dropped their fourth consecutive match to fall to 3-5.
Action resumes Sunday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, with NU taking on Far Eastern University and UP facing University of the East.
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