Archers Vs. Tigers

Archers Vs. Tigers

First Round Encounter: DLSU def. UST – 20-25, 25-20, 22-25, 25-22, 15-11
Second Round Encounter: UST def. DLSU – 23-25, 20-25, 26-28, 25-16, 15-12
Finals Game 1: UST def. DLSU – 24-26, 25-23, 25-16, 25-21

It was a sad loss for the Lady Spikers and a triumphant win for UST. I am again surprised how the game turned-out especially for the Lady Spikers. Let me review first what UST did right this time. First, the team’s key players Angge Tabaquero and Aiza Maizo were unstoppable both in offense and in defense may it be in the net or in the floor. What was impressive was Rhea Dimaculangan, the team’s setter was able to confuse blockers of DLSU time and again which has been a key factor why they are able to run their plays flawlessly and of course, Angge’s attacks are almost unstoppable and awe inspiring. Although it can be said that their middle plays was missing. Both Maika Ortiz and Dindin Santiago are not performing at their usual while Jecjec Curato along with Aiza and Angge are also unstoppable at the floor. Also, there is their superb net defense which has read the attacks of the DLSU girls. The Lady Spikers on the other hand really had a poor setting duties. I saw the improvements over at Cha Cruz and Liss Gohing but they need to bring their A game back. Much like the game they had during the first round of elimination. Also what lacked is the variation of plays that they had no trouble executing before. For example the C-quick plays for Steph Mercado and Cha and the middle hits for Jacq Alarca and Abi Marano although. Further, Abi and Joanne Siy were almost a non-factor during the game (good thing Joanne was the only unmarked offensive option of the team) and even the reserve setter had rookie and championship jitters. Well sad to say that it is their worst game this season and they looked defeated already after sets two and three. The championship panache was gone and UST took advantage of it. If UST will be able to maintain that level of play and composure tomorrow, the championship series might end here. On the other hand, if DLSU will show dominance and derail the Tigresses tomorrow, there might be a good chance to extend this series.

By: Frecelynne Abegail Lambino

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