Undefeated National University and Far Eastern University advanced to the semifinals of the 2024 Shakey’s Super League (SSL) National Invitationals on Saturday at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.
The Lady Bulldogs demolished the University of Southern Philippines Foundation Lady Panthers, 25-11, 25-12, 25-14.
Meanwhile, the Lady Tamaraws outlasted the University of Santo Tomas Golden Tigresses in a thrilling match, 25-13, 18-25, 16-25, 25-18, 15-10, in the quarterfinals.
Sheena Toring led the way for NU with 10 points on seven attacks and three kill blocks in just two sets of action.
Bella Belen and Arah Panique added six markers each in their last game before joining Alas Pilipinas in its Japan training camp.
Myrtle Escanlar and Kaye Bombita scored nine markers each and combined for 16 of the 44 attack points collected by NU, which has yet to drop a set in the tournament backed by Shakey’s Pizza Parlor, Eurotel, Victory Liner, Team Rebel Sports, and Mikasa.
Despite the easy win, Norman Miguel was far from satisfied with the two-time SSL Collegiate Preseason Championship winner and reigning UAAP champion.
“We still need to work on our passing and blocking. And also on our connections, especially the chemistry between the rookies and their seniors,” Miguel said.
(C) Roman Prospero/SSL
Meanwhile, Jean Asis led two other Lady Tamaraws in double figures with 17 points anchored on 11 kills, five kill blocks, and an ace.
Lovely Lopez scored all her 13 points from hits, including the game-winning spike, while Chenie Tagaod added 11 markers for FEU.
Maturity and experience spelled the difference for the Lady Tamaraws as they kept the rookie-laden Golden Tigresses at bay in the deciding frame.
FEU erected an 11-5 lead in the fifth set and easily quelled a brief uprising by UST when it closed the gap to just three points. The Tigresses saved two match points before Lopez sealed it with a hit.
The two UAAP teams will take on two Strong Group-backed NCAA squads in the Final Four. NU will face Letran, while FEU takes on Benilde.
The Lady Knights had to weather a late third-set scare by the University of Batangas before hacking out a 25-22, 25-10, 25-23 win.
On the other hand, the Lady Blazers eliminated Enderun Colleges with a 25-13, 25-17, 25-14 victory.
