UAAP: Eya Laure deflects credit to team after big UST win over La Salle
MANILA, Philippines—Although she erupted for 29 points, Eya Laure deflected the credit to the whole University of Santo Tomas team for working together in toppling erstwhile-unbeaten La Salle in the UAAP Season 85 women’s volleyball tournament.
Laure was efficient, hitting 29-of-65 to propel UST’s stunning 25-19, 14-25, 25-18, 25-12 victory over the Lady Spikers on Sunday at Smart Araneta Coliseum.
The UST skipper’s season-high in points was fueled by her trust in her teammates, especially libero Detdet Pepito, who protected the floor of the Tigresses.
“I always think that I will hit the ball because whatever happens Detdet’s (Pepito) coverage is there,” said Laure in Filipino. “The second set was a wake-up call for us. Because when we attack, we still have to cover and work. I always think that they have to feel that we have to work for us to win because it won’t come automatically.”
Besides Laure, Milena Alessandrini also stepped up with 20 points including two blocks. Regina Jurado had 12 points and 12 digs, while setter Cassie Carballo delivered the brilliant set plays.
“No one can do it alone. To get the win, you have to work as a team. That’s one of my learnings. It’s great to see my teammates step up. We rise as one. That’s the good thing about our team this season,” Laure said.
UST win that dealt La Salle first loss after a 9-0 start came just a month after the Tigresses snapped National University’s 20-game winning streak.
During the first round, the Tigresses failed to carry the momentum of their thrilling win over the Lady Bulldogs as they lost the following game to the Adamson Lady Falcons.
After taking down Angel Canino and the Lady Spikers, Laure is confident that they already learned their lesson and will make the most of the Holy Week to keep their momentum going after the break.
“All of our losses since the previous game served us motivation to us. We don’t want to feel that our hard work will not get the result that we deserve. We will continue to draw strength from our preparation and how our team works,” she said.
UST, which improved to a 7-3 record, returns to action on April 15 against Ateneo at Philsports Arena in Pasig City.