By Abby Toralba
JOSE Maria College Foundation of Mindanao bounced back from its opening-day loss and stunned NCAA finalist Lyceum of the Philippines yesterday, scoring a come-from-behind 24-26, 25-19, 25-22, 26-24 win in the 2023 Shakey’s Super League National Invitationals at The Arena in San Juan.
With the win, the Royals kept their quarterfinals chances alive in Pool C, thanks to the efforts of JM Palero who tallied 18 points, 13 off attacks and five service aces. Michaela Oliveros also contributed to JMCF’s victory with 15 points while Dianne Brion had 11 markers.
In the second match, University of Perpetual Help also bounced back from an opening-day defeat by beating the debuting University of Southern Philippines Foundation 23-25, 25-12, 25-20, 25-16.
Winnie Bedaña erupted for 20 points to lead four players in double digits as the Lady Altas improved to 1-1 in Pool A after a 25-11, 25-17, 25-12 loss to UAAP champion La Salle.
“Hindi kami nag-expect na mananalo kasi malalakas iyong kalaban dito mula sa UAAP at NCAA. Blessing sa amin ito, nanalo versus a strong team from the NCAA. First time namin dito at mula sa first game, naka-adjust naman. Lumabas iyong laro ng mga bata,” said Royals coach Ronaldo Puno.
