Games Wednesday(San Andres Complex)9 a.m. — AU vs San Beda (M/W)2 p.m. — CSB vs EAC (W/M)
LYCEUM of the Philippines University (LPU) went to Johna Denise Dolorito and Jewel Therese Maligmat in the deciding fifth set as it edged Mapua University (MU), 25-20, 16-25, 21-25, 25-22, 15-5, on Tuesday that launched its campaign in National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Season 98 Volleyball at the San Andres Complex.
Ms. Dolorito unloaded a team-best 16 points including a crisp kill that hammered in the final nail in the coffin while Ms. Maligmat uncorked 14 hits she laced with a pair of booming ace in the final set that helped seal the Lady Pirates their first win.
It was a result that should set in motion LPU’s bid of making the Final Four after it came a few games close of barging into the round a season ago before winding up sixth.
Now this could be the year they are waiting for.
With their backs against the wall after falling a set to two and trailing in the fourth set, LPU coach Cromwell Garcia’s charges showed incredible grit and fought back to snatch the set that arranged the decider.
It was all LPU needed to turn the tide in its favor as it dominated the last set with Mmess. Dolorito and Maligmat spearheading the charge.
Also contributing for the Lady Pirates were Janeth Tulang, Zonxi Jane Dahab and Joan Daguna, who had 14, 13 and 11 hits, respectively.
Roxie dela Cruz paced all hitters with 20 points but she and the Lady Cardinals were overwhelmed by the Lady Pirates’ fifth-set deluge.
In men’s action, Mapua rode on John Benedict San Andres’ 15-point explosion as it routed LPU, 25-12, 25-13, 25-19. — Joey Villar