By Michael Angelo S. Murillo
Senior Reporter
ATENEO Lady Eagles rookies Faith Nisperos and Roma Mae Doromal made their University Athletic Association of the Philippines seniors debut on Wednesday and the team came away impressed with their performance and deemed them as important pieces as they try to defend their title in Season 82.
Drew much noise in the lead-up to the just-started UAAP season because of their skills set and reputation in the juniors tournament, Nisperos and Doromal did not disappoint in their maiden outing for the Lady Eagles, chipping in their fair share in Ateneo’s domination of the University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons, 25-13, 25-17 and 25-23.
Outside hitter Nisperos proved to be a steady source of points as billed, finishing with 10 points in her first game, while libero Doromal was capable in alternating play with veteran Dani Ravena.
“Faith and Roma were big factors for us in this win. We really hope that this blessing we got from them continues in our remaining games,” said Ateneo coach Oliver Almadro after their first victory.
He went on to say that he liked what he saw but reiterated that as rookies, Nisperos and Doromal still have to continue improving their game in relation to what the team wants to achieve.
“I’m happy that Faith was finally able to play for us in the seniors. I just told her to continue improving, not only making a lot of points but also helping her teammates improve in doing their jobs,” said Mr. Almadro of Nisperos, a juniors champion and most valuable player while playing for the Nazareth School of National University.
On Doromal, a teammate of Nisperos in high school, the Ateneo coach said, “I’m satisfied with Roma’s performance a while ago and of course being a rookie she still needs to improve. But I have confidence in her that she will never stop until she perfects her skills.”
Against UP, Ateneo was dominant, never allowing the Maroons to get their game going.
Senior Kat Tolentino led the way for the Lady Eagles with 15 points with Jules Samonte adding 10 of her own.
The returning Jhoana Maraguinot scored four points in her UAAP return.
The Lady Eagles next play rivals De La Salle Lady Spikers on March 7 at the Mall of Asia Arena.
