UP ends Ateneo reign in badminton

MANILA, Philippines - University of the Philippines rallied from two matches down to end Ateneo’s reign, 3-2, and complete an unbeaten campaign in the UAAP Season 77 women’s badminton yesterday at the Rizal Memorial Badminton Hall.

The Lady Maroons banked on season MVP Jessie Francisco’s 21-16, 21-13 win over Jana de Vera in deciding singles to hack out the hard-earned triumph which ended a 14-year title drought via a nine-game sweep.

The Lady Eagles were poised to extend the series after taking a 2-0 lead courtesy of singles wins by Bianca Carlos and Trixie Malibiran.

Carlos, last season’s MVP, downed Bea Bernardo, 21-18, 21-15, in the opener while Malibiran overcame a first set loss to turn back Mary Ann Maranon, 19-21, 21-18, 21-15, in the second singles.

UP turned the tie around in the doubles matches, with Francisco and Bernardo making short work of Carlos and Dia Magno, 21-19, 21-12, and Marina Caculitan and Maranon beating Malibiran and Cass Lim, 10-21, 21-17, 21-17, to forge a decider.

The Rookie of the Year award went to Maranon.