Soltones powers Lady Stags to elims sweep

GRETCHEL Soltones again put on a show as San Sebastian overpowered St. Benilde, 25-20, 22-25, 25-17, 25-18, yesterday to complete an elimination-round sweep and jump straight to the Finals in the NCAA women’s volleyball tournament at Filoil Flying V Arena in San Juan.

A shoo-in for a second straight MVP award, Soltones erupted for 32 points to lead the Lady Stags past the Lady Blazers, who stole the second set, 25-22.

The Lady Stags’ 9-0 record propelled them to the title round with a thrice-to-beat advantage, an incentive equivalent to a 1-0 edge in a best-of-five title series.

Defending champion Arellano (8-1), Perpetual Help (7-2) and St. Benilde (6-3) will fight for the last title slot in a stepladder semifinals.

Despite the impressive feat, San Sebastian coach Roger Gorayeb reminded his wards that the sweep only secured them a Finals appearance.

“We are not yet assured of a championship,” said the multititled mentor, noting that the Lady Stags need to work on their cohesiveness ahead of the title round.

Soltones unloaded 24 kills, two blocks and six aces.

“She’s just playing inspired right now,” said Gorayeb.

The No. 3 Lady Altas—who capped their elimination run with a 25-12, 25-23, 25-21 triumph over Letran—will clash with the fourth-ranked Lady Blazers at the start of the semifinals on Tuesday.

In men’s action, Perpetual Help ripped Letran, 25-15, 25-22, 25-18, to secure the twice-to-beat advantage in the Final Four.

Bonjomar Castel and Rey Taneo Jr. teamed up for 22 points to lift the Altas, who tied defending champion Emilio Aguinaldo College on top at 8-1.