The San Sebastian College-Recoletos Lady Stags took their first match of the Shakey’s V-League Quarterfinals, disposing of the University of Santo Tomas Golden Tigresses in four sets, 25-20, 25-18, 16-25, 25-19, at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig City.
UST saw a 5-0 first set lead dwindle and turn into a 14-17 deficit. Surrendering errors and mis-receptions, the Tigresses fell out of contention in the first set after back-to-back miscues powered the Lady Stags to a 23-18 lead. The Lady Stags continued to pound on the Tigresses in the second set, challenging UST’s weak back line and taking an insurmountable 19-11 lead.
The Tigresses managed to turn the tables on the Lady Stags in the third set, dislodging San Sebastian’s service reception. UST cruised to a huge 20-12 lead and never looked back. However, UST completely fell apart in the fourth set. After taking another early lead, the Tigresses slipped up and let the Lady Stags take seven straight points and a 23-17 lead, sealing the match.
“Mabuti gumana ‘yung mga players. Medyo bago sa amin itong umabot ng quarterfinals. Nagsisikap talaga sila makapasok pa sa next round,” said San Sebastian assistant coach Clint Malazo.
Shakey’s V-League Open Conference MVP Grethcel Soltones led the Lady Stag with 23 points, while middle hitters Joyce Sta. Rita and Kath Villegas each provided nine points.
UST Junior Tigress Eya Laure topped her team with 16 points, while Ria Meneses contributed 11 markers.
With a 0-3 record, the Tigresses fall out of contention for a semis seat. Their next match comes against the Ateneo de Manila University Lady Eagles (1-1) on Monday, 6:00 pm, at the PhilSports Arena. The Lady Stags (2-1) face the Far Eastern University Lady Tams (3-0) on Saturday, 4:00 pm, at the FilOil Flying V Centre.
The Scores
SSC (3) – Soltones 23, Sta. Rita 9, Villegas 9, Dalisay 7, Lim 5, Encarnacion 3, Guillema 3, Santos 2, Tianco 0, Eroa (L)
UST (1) – Laure 16, Meneses 11, Gutierrez 9, Viray 7, Palec 6, Bicar 1, Mangulabnan 1, Sandoval 1, Pacres 0, Pollentes (L), Rasmo (L)
