Lady Red Spikers up

SBC’s top hitter Cesca Racraquin challenges St. Benildes’ Dianne Ventura as Marites Pablo tries to provide help during their PVL Collegiate Conference clash at the Filoil Flying V Center. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

Chesca Racraquin doesn’t mind being likened to seasoned veteran Rachel Anne Daquis, but as much as possible, she wants to carve her own niche.

On Wednesday night she made a strong case for it.

The 20-year-old Racraquin displayed leadership beyond her years in leading San Beda to a 25-21, 25-20, 17-25, 25-22 triumph over St. Benilde in the Premier Volleyball League Collegiate Conference at Filoil Flying V Centre.

“I know that I have something different to offer,” said Racraquin, who scored 15 points including 12 attacks.

True to her promise, the 5-foot-8 stunner also proved to be as sharp on the defensive end, making 22 excellent digs and 10 receptions for the Lady Red Spikers, who improved to a 2-1 record.

In the second match, Lyceum downed Jose Rizal University, 25-20, 24-26, 25-13, 25-22, for its first win.

San Beda had the chance to finish the match early but allowed St. Benilde to come back mainly through Ranya Musa, who had 22 points including eight blocks.

“We lacked the aggressiveness in the third set because after winning the first two we became very complacent,” said Racraquin.

The fourth frame was tied at 13 until “our rotation allowed us to make crucial adjustments,” said Racraquin, whose three straight points gave San Beda a 20-17 lead.