MANILA, Philippines -- (UPDATED) University of the Philippines recovered from a sluggish third frame to overwhelm University of the East, 25-23, 25-20, 18-25, 25-17, in the UAAP Season 82 women's volleyball tournament on Saturday at the Mall of Asia Arena.

It was the first win of the season for the Fighting Maroons after succumbing to defending champion Ateneo de Manila University in straight sets last Wednesday.

Former Rookie of the Year Isa Molde was superb, scoring 24 points on 18 kills, 4 blocks and 2 aces, while Tots Carlos added 15 points, including 12 kills.

"We're happy for the win," said UP head coach Godfrey Okumu. "It's a good feeling, as opposed to the first game we played. Today, we're happy for the win."

After taking a two-set advantage, UP's offense sputtered in the third frame. The Lady Warriors claimed a 13-6 lead, with skipper Mean Mendrez repeatedly breaking down the Fighting Maroons' net defense. Back-to-back hits by Mendrez gave them a comfortable 20-13 lead.

UP came to within four points, 18-22, after Mendrez sent a down-the-line hit wide, but the Lady Warriors showed their composure in holding on for the win. Ja Lana, in particular, was solid in the clutch with a hit and the winning ace. UE's defense limited the Fighting Maroons to just 7 kills in Set 3, while they had 17 attacks.

The situation was completely reversed in the third set, however. With Molde near unstoppable, UP surged to a 12-3 advantage and never let up. The Lady Warriors came to within five points twice, at 11-16 and again at 17-22, but in both instances, the Fighting Maroons had all the answers.

Skipper Rosie Rosier came up with back-to-back hits to put UP at match point, before Jessma Ramos turned back Rhea Manalo to seal the win.

"In the fourth set, we started playing our normal volleyball. We served well and we dominated," said Okumu. "We were in control of the game, we're aggressive, and I'm proud of my team for that. Usually, the most aggressive team wins, and that's what worked for us."

UP had fewer kills, 43-51, but made up for that with a 12-2 lead in blocks and a 9-7 lead in aces. Moreover, they got 29 free poins off UE's errors.

Mendrez led the Lady Warriors with 21 points, while LAna finished with 17 kills. UE dropped to 0-2 in Season 82.