NCAA

NCAA: Blazers frustrate Pirates

June 15, 2022 Theodore P. Jurado 298 views

COLLEGE of Saint Benilde gained a piece of the lead following a 25-21, 25-8, 25-13 conquest of Lyceum of the Philippines University in the NCAA women’s volleyball tournament at the Paco Arena.

Coach Jerry Yee returned after missing the season opener due to national women’s U18 commitments and the Lady Blazers responded with a second consecutive straight-set win.

Joining titleholder Arellano University on top of the standings, CSB is making amends after its title bid was derailed by the pandemic in 2020.

The Lady Blazers, who went 7-0 two years ago, have showing a different aura this season.

“Nag-mature naman sila inside and outside the court. Yung personality nila sa labas ng court, sa labas ng practice, nag-grow naman sila,” said Yee.

Jade Gentapa led CSB with 11 points, including two service aces, and nine digs, Mycah Go had 10 points and nine receptions, while Gayle Pascual also scored 10 points.

Later, Tere Manalo dropped 16 points, while Nicole Ong and Jonina Fernandez chipped in 14 points apiece as Mapua outlasted San Sebastian, 15-25, 25-23, 25-18, 20-25, 15-12, to enter the win column.

The Lady Blazers, who drew two blocks apiece from Cristy Ondangan and reserve Cathrina Dizon are looking forward to get better for what’s up in the table.

“Every game dapat ready kami lahat. Training kami, ensayo kami. Lahat ng kailangan pang i-improve, tuloy-tuloy lang. Walang titigil,” said playmaker Cloanne Mondoñedo, who tossed in 15 excellent sets.

Jewel Maligmat had eight kills while Zonxi Dahab and Denise Dolorito had six points apiece for the Lady Pirates, who dropped in a tie with the Lady Cardinals and the Lady Stags at 1-1.

San Sebastian, which failed to sustain its strong showing in the opening set, drew 19 points apiece from Reyann Cañete and Kat Santos.

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