NU is down, but they're not out.
The National University Lady Bulldogs showed on Sunday why they were the defending champions. They started strong against top seed De La Salle University Lady Spikers, taking the first and third sets in Game 1 of the UAAP Season 85 women’s volleyball tournament finals.
As La Salle forced a fifth set and took the momentum, NU’s chances to win remained alive, going as close as two points away from clinching the game—before they ultimately fell short, 18-25, 25-22, 22-25, 25-21, 15-13.
Some fans and pundits might argue that the result could have been different if starter Sheena Toring did not suffer an injury in the final set and was able to finish the game at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
Toring, who’s also celebrating her birthday today, is eager to fight through the setback.
“Move on na lang siguro. Wala na akong time mag-emote, patapos na iyong season,” the middle blocker told reporters on Sunday, indicating her desire to suit up in Game 2.
To do just that, Toring will bank on the support of the NU family. On Monday, she particularly got a boost from a teammate, defending MVP and last year’s Rookie of the Year Bella Belen.
On Instagram, Belen sends a sweet greeting and a reaffirming message to Toring.
“Happy birthday, ate dear! Ilalaban natin ‘to hanggang dulo, ate,” Belen wrote.
“I love you so much po,” the Rookie-MVP added.
NU catches a break as they have almost a week until Game 2, which is scheduled on Sunday at the Mall of Asia Arena. Toring could use this time to recover, and Belen and the Lady Bulldogs could pour their efforts into game-planning against La Salle.
After the classic Game 1, the fans only expect another fiery match between two powerhouse volleyball programs, with or without staredowns.