Tigresses edge Lady Falcons in five sets

MANILA, Philippines – Sophomore spiker Carmela Tunay rose to the occasion as she carried the load on her shoulders and helped University of Santo Tomas escape the gritty Adamson University in five sets in the 75th season of UAAP women’s volleyball tournament.

The Communication Arts student rammed the last three points for the Tigresses and survived the Lady Falcons, 25-18, 22-25, 25-21, 18-25, 15-13, to stretch their winning streak to three games tonight at the San Juan Arena.

But the victory wouldn't be possible if not for the heroics of another sophomore, Pamela Lastimosa, veteran Maika Ortiz and skipper Judy Caballejo, who poured in 15 points apiece. For her part, Tunay added 11 markers.

After climbing a four point deficit, 4-8, the Tigresses managed to even the game, 12-12, courtesy of Ortiz and Caballejo who provided solid offense and defense.

With the main gunners Ortiz and Caballejo at the back line, the young lass fearlessly nailed three highly contested attacks to complete the comeback as the España-based belles snatched the solo third spot toting a 4-2 win-loss card.

“Must win para sa amin ito (This is a must-win for us),” said UST mentor Odjie Mamon. “Kailangan namin mag stock ng panalo kasi mahirap mapunta sa number three or number four spot. (We need to stock up on wins because it’s hard to be at the number three or four spot)”

The Tigresses found themselves in big trouble after Sheila Pineda went unstoppable, scoring six straight points, to post a 9-6 lead. But the rotation sent her at the backline, which a not so good option for an attack.

On the losing effort, Pau Soriano scored a game-high 25 markers while Pineda chipped in 16 points for the Lady Falcons, who suffered a back-to-back five setter setback.

Adamson, which lost against the top squad Ateneo on Sunday, is now tied with host National University at the fourth spot with a 3-3 record.