By Emy Manipol
SAN JUAN, MM--Coming into the season with an 18-game winning streak, the two-time defending champions Ateneo Lady Eagles came into the match against National University Lady Bulldogs expecting a dog fight.
NU’s inability to close out sets, however, allowed Ateneo to stretch its winning streak and start its title defense campaign on the right note with a victory in three sets, 25-21, 25-19, 25-14, at the FilOil Flying V Centre on Sunday.
There were major adjustments in the line up of Ateneo after the departure of their two best receivers, Denden Lazaro and Ella De Jesus.
Gizelle Tan, who was the backup setter, had to presume the role vacated by Lazaro.
Amy Ahomiro also returned to her roots as she gave up her middle blocker role in favor of being an open-hitter.
In the first set, NU surrendered a four-point lead to Ateneo after back-to-back MVP Alyssa Valdez scored after a powerful hit to tie the set at 18-all.
Valdez would actually score three straight, giving Ateneo a two-point lead, 18-20. The set ended with her scoring back-to-back service aces.
The same story line was seen in the second set, as NU again started the set blistering only to crumble at the closing part.
The team allowed Ateneo to climb from a six-point deficit and to win by the same margin.
The third set featured a more aggressive Lady Eagles that did not allow the Lady Bulldogs to build momentum.
Ateneo capitalized on NU’s scoring errors to cash in its first win.
Valdez led the Lady Eagles with 18 points while finding great help from Maddie Madayag, who added 13
Myla Pablo, Jorelle Singh and Jaja Santiago tried to carry the offensive duties for the Lady Bulldogs but did not receive support from their other teammates.
The game also saw Coach Roger Gorayeb utilizing three of his setters in just three sets.
Follow her on Twitter: @emymanipol
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