Rivals Perpetual Help, San Sebastian clash in V-League

MANILA, Philippines — Southwestern University shoots for a second win Tuesday even as San Sebastian and Perpetual Help collide in a match between perennial NCAA powerhouses in the Shakey’s V-League Season 11 First Conference at Filoil Flying V Arena in San Juan.

The Lady Cobras, toting a 1-1 record, hope to bounce back from a loss to the Arellano Lady Chiefs when they meet the debuting St. Benilde Lady Blazers in the 2 p.m. clash.

The Lady Altas-Lady Stags showdown in Group B is set at 4 p.m. Perpetual Help has not played since losing to National University in straight sets in the season opener last month.

But the Lady Altas boasts tough and experienced campaigners led by Honey Royse Tubino, who will join forces with Norie Diaz.

The Lady Stags seek payback with a team spearheaded by top hitter Gretchel Soltones and Czarina Berbano. Two veterans in Maru Banaticla and Ryzabelle Devanadera will reinforce the team.

Banaticla is a former UST ace while Devanadera was a key cog in San Sebastian’s title romp a few years ago. San Sebastian is still looking for a first victory in the tournament after dropping a four-setter to Far Eastern University last Thursday.

The Lady Cobras’ lone win in Group A so far came at the expense of St. Louis U last week and the Cebu-based team hopes to squeeze the best out of team captain Neresa Villanueva, Marlyn Llagoso, Sheena Quino and Janelle Cabahug.

Only the top four from each bracket of six teams advancing to the quarterfinal round of the season-opening tournament.