Shakey’s V-League: Tigresses, Lady Eagles dispute playoff slot

MANILA, Philippines—Streaking University of Santo Tomas tries to put up another solid defensive effort against Ateneo as the two elimination topnotchers vie for at least a Final Four playoff seat Saturday in the Shakey’s V-League Season 11 First Conference.

Boosted by a four-game winning run, the Tigresses expect the UAAP champion Lady Eagles to come out strong despite absorbing a recent upset in Group 1 of the quarterfinal round.

Game time is at 4 p.m. at Filoil Flying V Arena in San Juan.

“Our defense was good [in our last game] because we were really organized,” said coach Odjie Mamon of the Tigresses, who have gotten a huge lift from rookie Ennajie Laure.

In Group 2 action, Far Eastern University and St. Benilde vie to stay in semifinal contention at 2 p.m.

And the Lady Tamaraws, who clinched the last quarterfinal berth, look bent on keeping their bid alive by tapping veterans Rachel Daquis and Jovelyn Gonzaga as guest players.

The Lady Eagles, meanwhile, try to rebound from their heartbreaking loss to the Davao Agilas, 22-25, 25-18, 25-27, 25-18, 19-17, last Thursday.

Ateneo star Alyssa Valdez erupted for 23 points and Michelle Morente also shone with 20, but the Lady Eagles still wound up short in the quarterfinal opener after topping Group A with a 4-1 record.