University of Santo Tomas ended Hope Christian High School’s reign in the Shakey’s Girls Volleyball League, pulling off a tough 25-21, 21-25, 25-21 victory Sunday to barge into the finals of the NCR eliminations at Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig.
Finishing second in Pool B after the round-robin play, the UST tossers played with a superb all-around game to win their crossover semifinal over Pool A’s unbeaten side.
The España-based squad forged a title clash with National U for the NCR title of the event backed by Mikasa, Asics, Volley Prep, Nature’s Spring, Sun Star, Freeman Newspaper, Cebu Daily News, Sun Cellular and Millenia Suites.
The Lady Bullpups, who topped Pool B, swept Pool A runner-up Kings’ Montessori School, 25-15, 25-14, in other semifinal game.
NU and UST were disputing the championship at press time with the winner advancing to the League of Champions set Jan. 11 to 16. The tournament will be spiced up by the participation of teams from New Zealand, Australia, the US and Bangladesh, according to Metro Sports’ Johanz Buenvenida.
Making up the early list of League of Champions cast are La Salle-A, Iligan City NHS, St. John’s Institute, Tagum City NHS, University of San Carlos and Holy Family Academy.