Arellano blasts Mapua, moves closer to semis slot in women’s volley

MANILA, Philippines — Arellano University inched closer to a Final Four berth after beating Mapua, 25-11, 25-9, 25-14, in the NCAA Season 89 women’s volleyball Tuesday at the Filoil Flying V Arena in San Juan.

The Lady Chiefs have now won their sixth straight game after dropping their season opener against the San Beda Lady Red Spikers to grab the solo lead just half a game ahead idle College of St. Benilde.

Menchie Tubiera scored 12 points while Cristine Rosario had nine points with three blocks to lead Arellano.

Meanwhile, San Sebastian joined two other teams in a three-way tie in third place following a 25-19, 25-23, 25-22 win over Emilio Aguinaldo College.

The Lady Stags moved into a tie with the Lady Red Spikers and defending champions Perpetual Help Lady Altas with identical 5-2 records.

Power hitter Gretchel Soltones fired 26 points while Czarina Berbano had an all-around effort with nine markers, including two blocks, and 10 digs for San Sebastian, which won its second game in a row.

The Lady Generals, who drew 12 hits from Charmille Belleza, slid to sixth place after falling to 4-3 and is now on the brink of elimination with just two games left.