Vanie Gandler finished with game-high 15 points off 14 attacks and an ace, plus nine excellent receptions, and six excellent digs as Ateneo improved to a 6-5 slate to tie Adamson University in the fourth spot, before their crucial showdown on Saturday, June 4 at 6:30 pm.

Faith Nisperos contributed 13 points in the balanced effort while Joan Narit and AC Miner scored eight markers apiece.

The win-hungry UE Lady Warriors rallied in the second set and managed to briefly lead the Blue Eagles, 16-15, before keeping an 18-all tie off a Miner net touch.

The Blue Eagles refused to hand over the set, scoring five straight points to create a pivotal 23-18 separation off a 5-0 run capped by a Nisperos crosscourt kill before Narit delivered the finishing blow for the 2-0 set lead, 25-22.

From there, the Blue Eagles carried the momentum and jumped to a 14-5 start in the final frame, highlighted by a Gandler kill, eventually dominating the third set for the 25-11 clincher.

“They really want to finish it right today, start strong, finish strong. It’s preparation for the future games,” said coach Oliver Almadro.

Only four Lady Warriors managed to score in this game; Lana with 11 points, Rhea Manalo with 7, Nieva with 5, and Lia Pelaga with 3.

UE next faces second-seeded La Salle on Saturday at 4pm.