![Alyssa Solomon of NU Lady Bulldogs. –SSL PHOTO](https://sports.inquirer.net/files/2023/11/alyssa-Solomon-of-NU-over-UST-Angeline-Poyos-and-Mary-BANAGUA-620x387.jpg)
Alyssa Solomon of NU Lady Bulldogs. –SSL PHOTO
MANILA, Philippines – Alyssa Solomon may have led the way for National University in Game 1 of the Shakey’s Super League (SSL) Pre-Season Championship Season 2 finals, but she passed the credit to their second stringers for helping them recover from a first set loss.
The Lady Bulldogs dropped their first set loss of the tournament, but immediately recovered to reverse University of Santo Tomas, 21-25, 25-16, 25-19, 25-17, to move within a win after another sweep of the tournament.
It was Arah Panique, Kaye Bombita and Aisha Bello who sparked the Lady Bulldogs’ attack in the second set, tying the game at one set apiece. Then, Solomon and the starters took over to put away the Tigresses on Friday night at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum.
“We lacked fun during the first set. Our second stringers showed us that they enjoyed and played without pressure in the second set,” Solomon, who finished with 15 points built on 11 attacks, three aces and a block, said in Filipino.
“So for us starters, why not play like them?”
Alyssa Solomon praises NU bench after winning Game 1 vs UST. #SSLPreseason #AllToPlay | @LanceAgcaoilINQ pic.twitter.com/kXMbOwlgNJ
— INQUIRER Sports (@INQUIRERSports) November 10, 2023
Solomon joined forces with Bella Belen and Vange Alinsug to deliver the final blows on UST and finish what the bench started as NU remained undefeated in nine matches.
“I am so proud of them because their performances in the last few games have not been at this level. This second set they showed that they don’t want to lose, but can enjoy the game at the same time,” she said.
The reigning SSL MVP continued to praise UST for pushing them to their limits after Regina Jurado, Angeline Poyos and Jonna Perdido made things difficult for them.
“UST really worked hard for every point and they didn’t drop the ball. I am happy because we were able to get this victory,” Solomon said.
NU has a chance to clinch the title in Game 2 for a second straight perfect championship run on Saturday at 5 p.m.
“We have to keep our focus and stay hungry. We cannot be complacent,” Solomon said.