DE LA SALLE asserted its dominance over archrival Ateneo de Manila University, taking a 25-22, 25-19, 25-18 sweep, and securing the top seed in the UAAP Season 85 women's volleyball tournament at the SM Mall of Asia Arena on Sunday.
This victory marked the Lady Spikers' 12th consecutive win against the Blue Eagles, a streak that has lasted for six years and is ongoing.
The last time Ateneo defeated De La Salle was on April 8, 2017 (Season 79 second round), with a 12-25, 25-20, 25-21, 25-19 victory.
Moreover, the Lady Spikers improved to a 12-1 record to secure pole position heading to the Final Four, while the Blue Eagles fell to sixth place with a 4-9 record.
"After a slow start, we reminded ourselves to play with pride. We cannot relax because Ateneo is a tough team," said Lady Spikers assistant coach Noel Orcullo.
When Ateneo closed the gap to 21-19, De La Salle's blocking came into play, denying three consecutive attempts, with one from Jolina Dela Cruz and two from Thea Gagate, before Shevana Laput's drop ball secured the second frame for her team, 25-19.
A late surge by Fifi Sharma, Gagate, and Laput propelled the Lady Spikers in the third set, turning a close 18-16 lead into a 25-18 victory to end the match in just one hour and 35 minutes.
Six-foot-two rookie Laput scored a new career-high of 16 points with an impressive 15-of-25 attack rate, while Angel Canino provided backup with 13 points, 11 excellent receptions, and five digs.
In the losing effort, Vanie Gandler tallied 13 points, seven receptions, and four digs, while Faith Nisperos added 12 points, including three service aces.
Both teams will conclude their elimination round campaigns on Saturday, with Ateneo facing National University and De La Salle meeting University of the East.