Lady Spikers are a win away from the semis bonus

La Salle made quick work of UE 25-17, 25-16, 25-19 earlier today to put themselves a win – against FEU – away from securing the twice-to-beat advantage in the Final Four.

Jolina Dela Cruz and Aduke Ogunsanya led the way with 10 points each.

It was a relatively easy win for the team. The Lady Warriors were undermanned entering this game with their top scorer Mean Mendres sitting out due to illness. After cruising in the first two sets, the Lady Spikers saw them themselves trailing early in third. Fortunately, errors on the UE side gave them the opportunity to take the lead and eventually the match.

Needing to to win their last two elimination round assignments to get hold of that semis incentive, Coach Ramil De Jesus reminded his players to not be complacent even if their opponent is no longer in contention.

“Lahat naman ng teams na makalaban namin, same ang preparation namin, same ang treatment namin. Sabi ko nga sa mga players ko na nothing to lose na ‘yung UE, so iba ang lalaruin nila. Kailangan namin ma-match ‘yun,”, he said.

The Lady Spikers are now a full game ahead of third place UST at 10-3 in the team standings. With the Tigresses favored to win their match against NU on Saturday, it is important for La Salle to beat the Lady Tamaraws on Sunday to avoid a possible tie for the second spot which leads to a virtual best-of-three semis series.

The Scores

DLSU (3) – Dela Cruz 10, Ogunsanya 10, Tiamzon 9, Cheng 8, Clemente 8, Cobb 3, Hatulan 2, Ipac 2, Alba 1, Luna 1, Saga (L)

UE (0) – Abil 16, Rodriguez 7, Baliton 5, Alcayde 4, Olarve 3, Bendong 1, Gabarda 1, Babol 0, Sta. Maria 0, Arado (L)

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