MANILA—The AFP Lady Gunnar finally broke into the win column of UVL Season 4, surviving a grueling five-set marathon against the Pag-IBIG Fund Lady Smashers, 3-2, at the Paco Arena on March 4, 2026. 

After a shaky start that saw them drop the opening set, the Lady Gunnar displayed veteran composure to outlast the league newcomers. 

The victory provides a crucial morale boost for AFP, while the rookie Lady Smashers continue their search for an elusive first win after falling to a 0-3 record.

May Madulid proved to be the difference-maker, earning Best Player of the Game honors with an explosive 20-point performance. 

Madulid dismantled the Pag-IBIG defense with 18 powerful attacks, complemented by a block and a service ace. 

Her steady hands in the final frame ensured the Lady Gunnar stayed ahead, as they dominated the fifth set with a 15-8 finish to seal the match.

The AFP’s outside attacker admitted that it was hard for them losing their first two games.

“Of course, hindi naman kasi natatapos sa talo lang. So pag nag-stumble ka kailangan mong bumalik, and that’s what we do… It’s been hard for us na for the past two games natalo kami and siguro lacking namin sa past two games namin is nalimutan namin mag enjoy.”—May Madulid said in the post-game interview. 

The seesaw battle saw both teams trade momentum, with set scores of 21-25, 25-21, 20-25, 25-17, and 15-8. 

While the Lady Smashers showed flashes of brilliance and pushed the veterans to the limit, their momentum sputtered in the fourth and fifth sets due to the in game injury of their outside spiker Diana Maceda. 

AFP’s superior execution in transition allowed them to capitalize on rookie errors, ultimately securing the win and keeping their postseason hopes alive in the competitive UVL circuit.