Lady Falcons rule softball tourney
Manila, Philippines – Adamson University swept its way back on top, blanking University of the East (UE), 2-0, in a virtual finals duel to clinch the 73rd UAAP softball title at the University of the Philippines (UP) field.
The Lady Falcons rode on the hot pitching of sophomore starter Julie Muyco to shut down the tenacious Lady Warriors and complete a rare 10-game sweep of the tournament.
Muyco, a national team member, starved the Lady Warriors with unplayable curves and fastballs while only giving up three hits to underscore her billing as the season’s Best Pitcher typified by a tournament-best .233 ERA and 20 strikeouts.
In contrast, losing hurler Jenny Pangilinan succumbed to Adamson’s offensive binge, yielding seven hits including two from Marissa dela Cruz whose RBI double sent Elna Parohinog home.
An Elvie Entrina RBI single in the ensuing play then propelled Dela Cruz home to seal Adamson’s date with destiny.
“The players gained more experience playing together, especially the rookies last year. Before the start of the season, we knew we had a good chance to win the title. The sweep just came in as a bonus,” said Adamson coach Ana Santiago, who won her fifth title and 10th overall for the Lady Falcons.
The Lady Falcons marked their dominant season with only two runs to surrender ironically in a pair of lopsided wins (5-1 and 7-1) against UP.
Adamson outfielder Luzviminda Embudo emerged as the season’s most decorated campaigner, claiming MVP honors on top of the Best Hitter, Best Slugger, Homerun Queen and Most RBIs awards.
Dela Cruz and Parohinog meanwhile co-received the Most Stolen Bases plum while La Salle’s Sarah Theresa Stewart was named Rookie of the Year.
