USPF duo wins Talisay beach volley crown

The University of Southern Philippines Foundation (USPF) tandem of Apple Saraum and Rochelle Rica came out of nowhere to topple the giants as they won the championship in the Talisay City Beach Volley Invitationals yesterday at the Liberation Park in Poblacion, Talisay City.

Saraum, a former national champion in the annual Nestea Beach Volley tournament, was simply in her element as she used her guile and skill to tow her team to the prestigious crown in the competition that served to commemorate the American landing in the city.

Making the feat even more impressive was the fact that USPF had to come from behind in both their wins yesterday.

The USPF pair first took care of the heavily favored pair of former Nestea national champion and Philippine beach volley team member Jusabelle Brillo and Murielle Froilan in the semifinals, 11-21, 21-9, 15-11.

Beforehand, Froilan Trading was on a roll as they won four straight games on their way to topping their group, 4-0.

Capping USPF’s successful showing was their thrilling, 11-21, 21-9, 17-15 win over another previously undefeated team, the University of San Carlos duo of Chona Gesulga and Suzette Panis, in the finals.

In that match, Saraum was sensational as she secured the win with thunderous spikes, which complemented the superb defensive efforts of Rica that nabbed USPF the title and the P7,000 cash prize that went with it.

Earlier, USC booked their slot in the finals with a 21-8, 21-10 straight sets win over Vhea Abellana and Therese Ramas. USC got P5,000 for their second place finish.

Froilan Trading won third place.