DLSU Lady Spikers take down Ateneo Lady Eagles to cap UAAP 81 opening weekend

Defending champions DLSU Lady Spikers started their campaign for the fourth straight women's volleyball crown with a win over rivals Ateneo Lady Eagles in four sets, 25-14, 25-17, 16-25, 25-19, Sunday at the Mall of Asia Arena.

La Salle captain Desiree Cheng sealed the win for the Lady Spikers with two straight points towards the end of the fourth set, after Ateneo almost made a run to close the gap, 23-19.

Photo: Zeke Alonso

Ateneo, who was coached for the first time by former men's volleyball tactician Oliver "Coach O" Almandro, had the early advantage in the third set, leading as much as six points, 11-5. DLSU had a hard time trying to close the gap, and Ateneo continued to pull away to end the third set, 25-16.

The green-and-white squad, however, started strong, dominating the first two sets at 25-14 and 25-17.

Cheng led the Taft-based squad with 13 points, eight of which came from attacks.

La Salle will next face Adamson Lady Falcons on Saturday, while the Lady Eagles will be back on the taraflex on Wednesday against the UST Golden Tigresses. — LA, GMA News