MANILA — De La Salle University closed in on an outright Finals berth after dismantling University of the East in straight sets, 25-20, 25-18, 25-15, to remain unbeaten in the UAAP Season 88 women’s volleyball tournament at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion.
The Lady Spikers improved to a pristine 13-0 record, putting themselves one win away from sweeping the elimination round — a feat that would automatically propel them to the Finals and trigger a stepladder format. It would also mark La Salle’s first elimination sweep since 2014.
La Salle will try to complete the sweep against defending champion National University on Sunday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena. The Taft-based squad earlier defeated the Lady Bulldogs in four sets in their first-round encounter.
The Lady Spikers asserted control in the third set, breaking a 4-4 deadlock with a decisive 11-5 run anchored on consecutive attacks from Shane Reterta before cruising to victory in just 78 minutes.
Negrense Angel Canino and Shevana Laput powered La Salle with 12 points each. Canino also delivered 10 excellent digs and seven excellent receptions, while Laput added four excellent digs.
Lilay del Castillo dominated at the net with nine points, including five blocks, while Amie Provido chipped in eight markers. Reterta and Mikee Santos added five points apiece, underscoring La Salle’s depth.
University of the East remained winless after 13 matches and extended its losing streak to 27 games dating back to previous seasons.
Khy Cepada led the Lady Warriors with 13 points, while Bangayan contributed 10. Angge Reyes anchored the defense with 10 excellent digs and eight receptions.
In another match, Adamson University boosted its Final Four campaign with a dominant 25-19, 25-18, 25-16 victory over University of the Philippines.
The Lady Falcons improved to 8-5 to claim solo third place, with Shaina Nitura erupting for 26 points built on 23 attacks and three service aces./PN
