MANILA — San Beda University Lady Red Spikers leaned on a brilliant all-around performance from Angel Habacon to sweep Arellano University Lady Chiefs, 26-24, 25-23, 25-22, in the NCAA Season 101 women’s volleyball on Saturday at the San Andres Sports Complex.
Habacon delivered a triple-double with 21 points, 15 digs, and 13 receptions, anchoring the Lady Red Spikers as they improved to 3-0 in Group B.
Arellano, meanwhile, slipped to 1-2 after failing to protect a commanding lead in the third set.
San Beda received additional scoring support from Janelle Bachar, who had 13 points, and Jeliane Catubig, who finished with 12. The victory gave the Lady Red Spikers added momentum heading into their rivalry showdown against Colegio de San Juan de Letran on Wednesday.
“‘Yung hard work ng mga bata, it’s all about them. We are just the guidance and we put some system na we think makakatulong para talaga sa kanila,” said San Beda head coach Kungfu Reyes. “Kita mo kung gaano sila kasaya kasi puro hard work.”
Arellano threatened to extend the match after taking control early in the third set. A series of blocks by middle blocker Sam Tiratira sparked a surge that pushed the Lady Chiefs to a 19-12 advantage.
However, costly errors and San Beda’s steady defense allowed the Lady Red Spikers to close the gap. A service and attack breakdown by Arellano narrowed the margin, setting the stage for Habacon’s takeover.
The third-year outside hitter scored crucial points in the closing stretch, lifting San Beda to the lead before sealing the match with a soft kill that capped a 13-3 finishing run.
For Arellano, Laika Tudlasan led with 14 points and six digs, while Crisanta Servidad and Kheisha Abitria added 12 and 10 points, respectively.
In Group A action, Mapua University Lady Cardinals secured its second straight victory after defeating Jose Rizal University Lady Bombers, 25-15, 29-27, 21-25, 25-22.
Raissa Ricablanca spearheaded Mapua with 28 points, while Alexander Leabres had 20. Angellick Gavica orchestrated the offense with 23 excellent sets. They improved to a 2-1 mark./PN
