Lyceum draws strength from Puzon

MANILA, Philippines — There’s a reason why Lyceum of the Philippines University has remained on course in making history in NCAA women’s volleyball.

It’s pocket-sized but big-hearted setter Venice Puzon.

The back-to-back best setter in the league came through with another fantastic performance in leading the Lady Pirates to a 25-21, 24-26, 18-25, 25-22, 15-11 win over the University of Perpetual Help Lady Altas yesterday in NCAA Season 99 at the Filoil EcoOil Arena.

Puzon dished out a match-best 20 excellent sets while presiding over her team’s floor defense with 16 digs as LPU snared a fourth straight victory and a share of No. 1 with three-peat-seeking St. Benilde and darkhorse Letran.

More importantly, LPU stayed in position to replicate, if not eclipse, its magnificent performance last season when it made the finals for the very first time before being denied a breakthrough championship by CSB.

“Adjustment at variation lang sa offense. Kailangan hindi mabasa agad ng blockers,” said Puzon, who suited up for the PLDT High Speed Hitters in the Premier Volleyball League last year.

With Puzon directing traffic, the Lady Pirates’ offense kept humming with the troika of Jane Tulang, Joan Doguna and Johna Dolorito taking turns before finishing with 20, 19 and 19 points, respectively.

LPU also overcame a titanic performance from reigning MVP Mary Rhose Dapol, who exploded for 35 points she fueled with 33 kills.

“Siguro dahil ito sa kagustuhan namin makabawi sa kanila kasi pre-season natalo kami sa kanila,” said Puzon.

The Lady Altas dropped to 2-2.