University of the East bounced back from a third-set stumble with a commanding performance in the fourth, defeating Letran 25-9, 25-23, 22-25, 25-16 to strengthen their playoff bid in the V-League Women’s Collegiate Challenge at the Paco Arena in Manila on Sunday.
Playmaker Kizzie Madriaga and top hitter KC Cepada led the charge for UE in the decisive set, propelling the team to a 16-8 advantage and eventually sealing the crucial victory. With the win, the Recto-based squad improved to a 3-2 record, creating a tie for second place in the seven-team league organized by Sports Vision, alongside Far Eastern University and the University of the Philippines.
Madriaga orchestrated the offense with 18 excellent sets and added two points, while Cepada shone with 19 points, including 15 attacks and four aces, along with 12 excellent receptions.
“I’m happy. We still have a lot to work on. The girls mentally played well today, and that’s what I’ve been concerned about, even with the last win, I felt that mentally, we weren’t as strong,” said UE head coach Obet Vital. “Today, they played with mental toughness. A lot better, energy was up, and that’s what makes the difference.”
After taking the first two sets in contrasting fashion, the Lady Warriors faltered in the third, falling into a series of errors. Letran capitalized with timely hits, forcing the match into a fourth set.
However, UE regrouped and regained its momentum, delivering a dominant performance that saw them lead by as many as eight points. The victory marked their second straight win and third overall in five games in the pre-season tournament organized by Sports Vision.
The Lady Warriors now brace for a crucial match against the FEU Lady Tamaraws on Sept. 8 at 12 noon, a match expected to have significant playoff implications in the women’s division.
