It's a victorious return for Adamson in the V-League Collegiate Challenge after the Lady Falcons shook off Perpetual in four sets.
Adamson University delivered a strong message in its return to the V-League Collegiate Challenge, overcoming a shaky start to defeat University of Perpetual Help System DALTA, 22-25, 25-15, 25-16, 25-22, Sunday at the Paco Arena Sports and Events Center.
After dropping the first set due to early jitters and unforced errors, the Lady Falcons bounced back with dominant performances in the second and third frames, then held off a determined stand by the Lady Altas in the fourth to seal the win in one hour and 16 minutes.
With the match hanging in the balance late in the fourth, Eloi Dote stepped up in the clutch, firing back-to-back hits to push Adamson to within two points of victory.
Perpetual momentarily threatened at 22-23, but the Lady Falcons kept their composure, capping the match with a clutch block from Red Bascon on Pauline Reyes’ attack.
"It was a great privilege for us, 'yung opportunity na meron kami na makasali sa mga ganitong tournaments, so that 'yung mga bata maging experienced. Dito mag-start 'yung jelling ng team, especially 'yung relationship nila inside and outside the court,” said Adamson coach JP Yude.
Adamson last saw V-League action in 2023 under former coach Jerry Yee, with veteran setter Louie Romero leading the squad.
Now under Yude's guidance, the Lady Falcons are using the tournament as a crucial tune-up for the UAAP, while giving younger players valuable exposure.
“’Yung mga pinagte-training-an naman, kung ano pa 'yung mga pwedeng i-adjust dito sa mga games at mga kailangang trabahuhin ng team, para papunta sa UAAP maging pulido na 'yung galawan," added Yude.
Frances Mordi led the scoring charge with 22 points off 17 attacks, two blocks, and three service aces. She also turned in a stellar defensive effort with six digs and 11 excellent receptions.
Former Adamson high school standout Abegail Segui added 17 points, while MG Del Moral chipped in eight markers in her collegiate debut.
Despite a gritty effort in the fourth, Perpetual couldn’t break through Adamson’s late-game resolve.
Shai Omipon finished as the only Lady Alta in double figures with 10 points, all from attacks, while Jernalyn Menor added nine.