NATIONAL University eyes a bigger prize just two days after its surprise conquest of defending champion Ateneo.
As the only unbeaten squad, the pumped up Lady Bulldogs shoot for the first Final Four berth against La Salle-Dasmariñas in the Shakey’s V-League at 4 p.m. today at Filoil Flying V Arena in San Juan.
“We will not stop working hard,” NU coach Edjet Mabayyad said after his Lady Bulldogs stunned the Lady Eagles in straight sets, 25-12, 25-17, 26-24, last Sunday.
“We’ll continue to play at a high level because the competition is getting tougher. We can’t afford to relax.”
Perpetual Help, meanwhile, tries to stay in semifinal contention against San Sebastian in the first game at 2 p.m.
The Lady Bulldogs, who last advanced to the semifinal round in the 2011 First Conference, pin their hopes anew on top hitter Dindin Santiago and her similarly towering sister Jaja, Myla Pablo, Aiko Urdas and Rubie de Leon.
Although the Lady Bulldogs stand as favorites, the Lady Patriots hope to keep their own bid alive with Jennifer Manzano, Iari Yongco and Monique Tiangco.
The Lady Altas are in a must-win situation to secure at least a playoff slot for the semifinals against the Lady Stags, who bowed out of the race following a 21-25, 20-25, 25-23, 23-25 setback against Adamson last Thursday.