DLSU Lady Spikers dispatch NU Lady Bulldogs, complete UAAP first-round sweep

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UAAP Season 88 Media Team

The De La Salle University (DLSU) Lady Spikers successfully completed a flawless first-round campaign by overpowering the National University (NU) Lady Bulldogs in four grueling sets at the packed Mall of Asia Arena.

Showcasing their undeniable championship composure, the Lady Spikers leaned on a balanced offensive attack and suffocating net defense to secure the hard-fought triumph and improve to a perfect 7-0 record.

Entering the highly anticipated collegiate rivalry match, both powerhouse squads were eager to assert their dominance and secure massive momentum heading into the tournament's critical second half.

"The girls really showed their character today because NU is not a team you can easily put away," DLSU head coach Ramil de Jesus shared during the post-game press conference.

After comfortably taking the first two frames, La Salle encountered fierce resistance in the third set as NU's aggressive serving and relentless floor defense sparked a successful comeback to temporarily extend the match.

However, the Lady Spikers quickly regained their lethal form in the fourth frame, utilizing timely defensive stops from middle blocker Amie Provido—who finished with 12 crucial points—to permanently shut the door on the opposition.

Despite the heartbreaking defeat that dropped them to a 5-2 standing, the Lady Bulldogs proved their elite resilience by constantly threatening the undefeated league leaders through their gritty transition plays.

Seeking to preserve their unblemished record and lock in a Final Four spot, the Lady Spikers will open the second round of eliminations against a surging University of Santo Tomas squad this weekend.