Army-San Sebastian title clash looms in Shakey’s V-League

MANILA—Philippine Army and San Sebastian inched closer to a blockbuster finale as the top two seeds humbled their respective foes at the start of the Shakey’s V-League Open Conference Final Four Sunday at the FilOil-Flying V Arena in San Juan.

Banking on their solid reception, the Lady Troopers coasted to a straight-set victory against the No. 4 Ateneo Lady Eagles, 25-10, 25-21, 25-19, in Game 1 of the best-of-three series.

The Lady Stags also moved within a win of a Finals stint after bucking the Philippine Navy’s strong second-set challenge, 25-20, 34-32, 25-22, in the other semifinal encounter.

Rachel Daquis scored all of her 14 points on hits and Mary Jean Balse also had 12 markers, including three blocks and a couple of service aces, in the game Army dominated

Both the Lady Troopers and the Lady Stags will try to finish off their opponents on Thursday.

Army coach Rico de Guzman said the Lady Eagles were exhausted with top scorers Alyssa Valdez and Fille Cainglet held to just a combined 14 points.

“That’s not their real game,” De Guzman said in Filipino. “Maybe their spikers were just tired because they’re also competing in other tournaments like in beach volley.”

Sisters Mayette and Michelle Carolino also teamed up for 18 hits for the Lady Troopers.

“We still can’t be too confident, we can’t relax,” added De Guzman.

San Sebastian’s imports Lauren Ford and Jeng Bualee again came up with a dominant show to power the Lady Stags in straight sets.

The American Ford fired 20 points built on 16 spikes, three blocks and a service ace, while the Thai Bualee had all her 18 markers on hits.