UAAP: La Salle downs Ateneo, goes 4–0 in women’s volleyball

De La Salle University sustained its blistering start in the UAAP Season 88 women’s volleyball tournament after defeating Ateneo de Manila University, 25-14, 21-25, 25-17, 25-17, on Sunday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

The victory extended La Salle’s winning streak to four matches this season. It also marked the Lady Spikers’ 16th consecutive win over Ateneo, a run that dates back to April 8, 2017 in Season 79.

Despite the triumph, it was the first time this season that La Salle dropped a set after sweeping its first three opponents.

“‘Yun ang lagi naming sinasabi sa kanila na hindi puwedeng biruin namin ‘yung kalaban. Masyado kaming nag-relax nung second set, ang layo nung first set na score ‘di ba?,” said La Salle deputy coach Noel Orcullo.

“Sabi nga, ang Ateneo sobrang tiyaga, grabe ‘yung depensa nila sa baba kaya hindi mo puwedeng isipin na pag pumalo, iisipin mo score na,” he added, echoing earlier remarks from head coach Ramil De Jesus.

Angel Canino led the Lady Spikers with 21 points built on 20 attacks and an ace, along with 11 receptions. Lilay Del Castillo and Amie Provido added 18 and 17 points, respectively.

Ana Hermosura paced the Blue Eagles with 18 points, eight receptions, and four digs, while JLo Delos Santos chipped in 15 points, seven receptions, and three digs as Ateneo remained winless through four games.

—JKC, GMA Integrated News