Davao Lady Agilas tackle UST Tigresses

MANILA, Philippines — Riding an unexpected streak, Davao hopes to sustain its pressure-free form in a bid to secure the solo lead in Group B of the Shakey’s V-League Season 11 First Conference Sunday.

The unbeaten Agilas, who emerged as this conference’s surprise performers, target a fourth straight victory versus the University of Santo Tomas Tigresses in their 2 p.m. duel.

“From the start, I’ve been telling them we’re playing with no pressure,” said Davao coach Shane Alagao. “So we just have to play our game.”

In Group A, Adamson tries to forge a three-way tie on top when it tackles St. Benilde at 4 p.m.

Overlooked early in the conference, the Agilas proved to be a serious contender when they shocked defending champion National University, 25-20, 30-28, 14-25, 32-30, three days ago to clinch a quarterfinal slot.

The Agilas, who were even surprised by their performance, leaned on the big games of May Agton and Jocemer Tapic.

“We never thought we could beat the champion,” said Alagao after the Agilas dealt the heavily favored Lady Bulldogs their first loss.

“Actually, we never thought we’d make it to the quarterfinals because in Pool B, all the teams are strong. We just said we’ll try.”

The Tigresses, running third at 2-1, try to play spoiler to the Agilas’ amazing run with rookie standout Ennajie Laure expected to deliver another big game along with Pam Lastimosa, Rhea Dimaculangan and Carmela Tunay.

Coming off a two-week break, the Tigresses try to follow up on their 25-16, 20-25, 25-14, 25-20 triumph over San Sebastian where Laure topscored with 18.

The Lady Falcons, meanwhile, aim to forge a 4-1 tie with idle Ateneo and Arellano with the star trio of Shiela Pineda, Pau Soriano and Thai reinforcement Pacharee Sangmuang.