MANILA, Philippines — More than her setting skills, UP head coach Godfrey Okumu lamented the loss of Ayel Estrañero's leadership in UP's Sunday loss against the UST Golden Tigresses.
Playing without the services of the veteran setter due to food poisoning, the Lady Maroons struggled to get back on their feet when UST took over the game.
"We missed Ayel's leadership," Okumu said.
"At some point, we need a voice in there. To push other players," he said.
The veteran has been key to keeping the Lady Maroons' emotions on the court in check.
Fans describe Estrañero as having nerves of steel, especially after leading UP's scorching 8-0 run in the PVL Collegiate Conference finals that gave Diliman its first major volleyball championship in decades.
But Okumu was all praises for the rookie Mai Sotomil, who filled in the setter position in Estrañero's absence.
"Sotomil was great today," the tactician commended.
"She gave her best and I hope that if given the chance, she will do much much more better," he said.
Estrañero is set to recover in time to see action in their clash against defending champions DLSU on Saturday, March 2.
Meanwhile, Justine Dorog's injury, who limped off the court late in yesterday's game, has yet to be determined.
UP stands with a 2-1 record ahead of their matchup with the Lady Spikers.