ADAMSON opened its title defense on a high note, sweeping University of Perpetual Help System Dalta, 25-21, 25-18, 25-22, in the V-League Collegiate Challenge preliminaries yesterday at the Gameville Central Park.
Playing without reigning UAAP MVP Shaina Nitura, Nigerian outside hitter Frances Mordi delivered when it mattered most, especially during a tight second-set opening and the decisive stretch of the third to secure the Lady Falcons’ first win. University of Santo Tomas also joined the opening weekend winners with a 25-15, 25-16, 25-19 romp of San Beda.
University of the East and Arellano University on Saturday also emerged triumphant in their respective tournament openers.
Mordi finished with a match-high 20 points on 16-of-36 kills, three service aces, and a block that went along with four receptions and three digs to lead Adamson.
“First of all, I thank God that we got this win. Also I’m happy na nakuha namin yung first game. I’m happy sa performance nila, na kahit sino hugutin, they performed well,” said Lady Falcons coach JP Yude.
“For us, in this tournament, we always gain experience and learnings na babaunin namin sa UAAP,” he added.
Lana Barrera chipped in 12 points in a two-set outing while filling in for Nitura, while Lhouriz Tuddao impressed in her debut as an opposite hitter with nine points for Adamson.
The Lady Falcons will next test the mettle of the new-look Lady Warriors on Sunday at 3 p.m.
Fhei Sagaysay tossed in nine excellent sets while libero Juris Manuel had 10 receptions and three digs.
