Ateneo takes 2nd crack at semis slot today

ATENEO and Philippine Navy, both fighting for the last semifinal berth, shoot for crucial wins against separate opponents in the Shakey’s V-League Open today at Ninoy Aquino Stadium.

The Lady Eagles—who recently blew a chance to complete the Final Four cast—go for another shot against defending champion Philippine Army at 4 p.m.

After playing spoiler to Ateneo, the Lady Sailors try to keep their semifinal bid alive versus the winless Far Eastern University in the 2 p.m. first game.

“We really thought we’re out of it, but we were given a chance,” Navy coach Nene Ybañez said in Filipino. “So it’s important that we win our last two games.”

Sandugo-San Sebastian vies to keep the solo lead against Cagayan Valley in the 6 p.m. nightcap.

The Lady Stags (7-1), the Rising Suns (6-2) and the Lady Troopers (6-2) have already secured the first three semifinal slots.

Last Tuesday, the Lady Eagles (3-5) could have claimed the last spot, but the fifth-running Lady Sailors (2-6) pulled off a four-set upset, 25-21, 19-25, 27-25, 25-23, behind Kiteh Rosale.

But the early semifinalists are far from relaxed as the top three all aim to clinch the top berth.