Army razes PLDT hopes

MANILA, Philippines–Philippine Army snuffed out PLDT Home Telpad’s title ambitions with a marathon 23-25, 25-16, 16-25, 25-21, 15-10 victory Tuesday night in the women’s division of the Shakey’s V-League Third Conference at Filoil Flying V Arena.

The Lady Troopers, who are already assured of a finals spot, once again showed strength and resolve in coming back from a set down twice to keep their perfect record.

Rachel Anne Daquis stepped up with 18 points, including a decisive kill late in the fifth set, while Nene Bautista, Jovelyn Gonzaga and MJ Balse each delivered 15 hits for Army which completed a six-game sweep of the elimination round.

Army’s win also gave Cagayan Valley a free ride to the finals with the Lady Rising Suns no longer facing a must-win scenario against Meralco tomorrow.

Earlier, Systema Tooth and Gum Care warmed up for the tougher battle ahead with a clinical 25-14, 25-19, 25-22 victory over Rizal Technological U (RTU) in the men’s division.

Already assured of a finals berth, the Active Smashers refused to pull their punches as they pummeled the hapless Blue Thunder to tie fellow finalist Instituto Estetico Manila at 4-1.

The Active Smashers and Volley Masters will still meet for the No. 1 seeding tomorrow.