Cagayan gals stake lead, battle Army

Cagayan Valley hopes to keep top spot as it tangles with Army in a clash of title favorites while rejuvenated squads Air Force and Ateneo collide in the Shakey’s V-League Season 11 Open Conference at Filoil Flying V Arena in San Juan.

The 2 p.m. duel with the Lady Troopers actually kick off a tough five-game stretch for the defending champion Lady Rising Suns, who are at No. 1 with a 6-1 record.

Cagayan, led by Aiza Maizo and Angeli Tabaquero, will be seeking a repeat of its first round triumph over Army, whose top hitter Rachel Anne Daquis remains doubtful due to an injury.

Riding high on big victories in their previous outings, the Raiders and Lady Eagles take the floor at 4 p.m.

With a 6-3 record, Air Force is looking to stay in the hunt for the No. 1 seeding and another victory could also dim the chances of Ateneo and National U to snatch a semifinal berth.

The Lady Troopers have looked vulnerable in the last two games and Air Force was actually quick to capitalize with a four-set win last Tueaday.

Army still has players capable of countering Cagayan standouts with Jovelyn Gonzaga, Nene Bautista and MJ Balse all available for today’s game. Army also has veteran setter Tina Salak.

The Lady Eagles, who are at fifth spot with a 3-5 slate, ended a string of heartbreaking losses Sunday when they stunned PLDT Home Telpad in straight sets.