Eagles, Archers renew rivalry in Spikers’ Turf

ATENEO and La Salle rekindle their fierce collegiate rivalry, this time in the semifinals of the Spikers’ Turf Season 2 Collegiate Conference at PhilSports Arena in Pasig.

Taking contrasting routes to the semifinal round, the Blue Eagles and the Green Archers clash at 4 p.m. in Game 1 of their best-of-three semifinal series that will be aired live on ABS-CBN Sports+ Action Channel 23.

Ateneo swept Group B on its way to clinching a semifinal seat, while La Salle hammered out a five-set victory over Far Eastern U in a game that left a strong impression on Archers coach Nes Pamilar.

La Salle hopes to draw an improved performance from star Raymark Woo, who struggled with just eight points against the Tamaraws, after averaging 19 hits in the first four games.

Pamilar will also rely on Cris Dumago, Arjay Onia and Mike Frey. The trio combined for 50 hits against the Tamaraws.

The Eagles will be led by the power-hitting duo of Marck Espejo and Rex Intal. Paul Koyfman, Joshua Villanueva, Manuel Sumanguid III and setter Joner Polvorosa also beef up the squad.

The other Final Four pairing pits Group A topnotcher National U against Group B second placer University of Santo Tomas at 12 noon.

The knockout duel for the last semifinals berth in the Shakey’s V-League will also be aired live tomorrow with San Sebastian College and Ateneo squaring off at 6 p.m. Cedelf P. Tupas