MANILA, Philippines — Sam Cantada unleashed a career-best 32 points as the NU Lady Bulldogs got back at the UP Fighting Maroons, 24-26, 25-17, 21-25, 25-18, 15-8, in the UAAP Season 88 women's volleyball tournament at the Araneta Coliseum Wednesday.
Unable to finish their first-round match against UP on February 28 due to a shin injury, Cantada willed the Lady Bulldogs to victory this time, delivering 27 attacks, three blocks, and two aces to avenge their first-round loss.
The super rookie added 18 excellent receptions and 13 digs for NU, which returned to the winning column after falling to the De La Salle Lady Spikers to close their first round campaign last Sunday.
Abie Pono tossed 21 excellent sets and five points including the match-clinching ace that completed the Lady Bulldogs comeback from 0-1 and 1-2 set disadvantages.
NU improved to 6-2, solidifying its hold of the second spot in the team standings.
UP suffered its fourth straight loss for a 3-5 slate good for sixth place.