Adamson Moves Into Fourth After Straight-Set Win Over Ateneo

Adamson University secured a 25-17, 27-25, 25-16 straight-set victory over Ateneo de Manila University, claiming the fourth spot in the UAAP Season 88 Collegiate Women’s Volleyball Tournament at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Wednesday.

With the win, the Lady Falcons now share fourth place with the University of Santo Tomas Golden Tigresses, both holding identical 5-4 records.

“Our goal is to stay consistent, especially after our recent loss. We needed to bounce back and work hard to make it to the Final Four,” said Adamson head coach JP Yude. “The remaining games are crucial, so we have to be mentally tough and respond well to every situation.”

The Lady Falcons were tested by Ateneo in the second set, but Shaina Nitura led the way. Tied at 25, Nitura scored an off-the-block kill for Adamson’s third set point and then clinched the set with a service ace, giving her team a 2-0 lead.

That hard-fought second-set win boosted Adamson’s momentum, and they opened the third with a dominant 9-2 run.

The Lady Falcons will look to extend their winning streak when they face last-place University of the East on Saturday at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion.

“I think my role is to be consistent and set the example. By doing the work, I hope the team follows suit,” said Nitura, who finished with 25 points on 19 attacks, four blocks, two aces, and 15 receptions.

Nigerian import Frances Mordi contributed 15 points on 12 spikes, two aces, and a block, while adding 12 receptions. Eloi Dote also chipped in with six points.

For Ateneo, Geezel Tsunashima and Alex Montoro led with nine points each, but the Blue Eagles remain at the bottom of the standings with a 1-8 record. Ateneo will face defending champions National University on Saturday at the QPav.