Ateneo Blue Eagles celebrate during a victory over Adamson Lady Falcons in UAAP Season 87 women’s volleyball.–UAAP PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines—In Ateneo’s first-round encounter with Adamson in the UAAP Season 87 women’s volleyball tournament, the Blue Eagles not only fell to the Lady Falcons in a heartbreaker but they also lost Zel Tsunashima to a season-ending injury.

The two teams met again Saturday and Ateneo made sure to dedicate the game to its fallen soldier.

“Actually, this game, we all talked about offering it to Zel. This is for Zel,” said Lyann De Guzman after their 25-23, 25-14, 25-23 sweep of Adamson.

READ: UAAP: Ateneo gets back at Adamson in women’s volleyball

“Those challenges happened but the fight isn’t over. We can still play and fight every game.”

Much like their first meeting, the Blue Eagles saw themselves take a blazing 2-0 set lead over Adamson.

But unlike their season opener, there was no comeback this time as Ateneo improved its record to 4-5.

AC Miner spearheaded the sweep with 13 points while De Guzman added 12 as the Eagles dealt the Falcons their sixth loss in nine outings.

READ: UAAP: Ateneo’s Lyann De Guzman stars anew, others teammates also deliver

Taks Fujimoto also provided major contributions with 17 excellent sets on top of five points.

“All of us, since we’re just 11 now, we really need to step up. I know it’s hard but we need it for the team. We need to improve,” said Fujimoto.

Up next for the Blue Eagles are their long-time rivals, De La Salle Green Archers, on Wednesday at the same venue.