Manila: University of the East banked on Vanessa Karzai Bangayan and Janessa Blaire Buhay to survive University of Perpetual Help, 22-25, 25-22, 25-17, 23-25, 15-12, and end its three-game slump in the 2026 V-League Collegiate Challenge at Gameville Central Park on Sunday.
According to Philippines News Agency, the Lady Warriors were trailing 8-12 before Bangayan and Buhay orchestrated a 7-0 run to secure the victory in two hours and two minutes. Bangayan delivered 33 points on 31 attacks, one ace, and one block, while Buhay added 20 points on 13 attacks, six aces, and one block, enhancing UE's semifinal aspirations.
Jennel Sofia Arasan contributed 19 excellent sets and two points, while Angelica Reyes recorded 20 excellent receptions and 19 digs. "It's a good test of character for the players, the composure on how to win in a fifth set. As I said, this is a preseason tournament, so we need all the experience that we can get," UE assistant coach Jumbo Dimaculangan stated.
Cyrille Joie Almeniana led the Lady Altas with 13 points, followed by Jemalyn Menor with 11 points. UE will face winless Letran at 3 p.m., while Perpetual will meet College of Saint Benilde at 5 p.m. on September 19.
