Ateneo, UST spikers clash; Bulldogs duel with Falcons

Games today (Philsports Arena)

2 p.m. – Ateneo vs UST

4 p.m. – NU vs Adamson

MANILA, Philippines - The Shakey’s V-League Season 10 First Conference holds its Final Four today with defending back-to-back champion Ateneo clashing with six-time winner UST and unbeaten National U battling a surging Adamson side in a pair of blockbuster matches tipped to go down-to-the-wire.

It is also expected to draw a bigger crowd, prompting the organizing Sports Vision to move the opener of the best-of-three semis series from the league’s home at The Arena in San Juan to a more spacious Philsports Arena in Pasig City. Game Two will be held at the MOA Arena in Pasay City on Thursday with the third game, if necessary, back at Philsports.

The Lady Eagles have tapped the services of Thai ace and ousted San Sebastian resident import Jeng Bualee, further strengthening the team’s frontline rotation that already boasts of Alyssa Valdez and Rachel Anne Daquis and a talented support crew that includes Fille Cainglet, Marge Tejada, Denise Lazaro and top setter Jem Ferrer.

But the Tigresses, who lost the Eagles in three in the elims and who had to nip the Perpetual Help Lady Altas in a five-setter to sweep their quarters assignment and top Group II, are more than ready to meet the Lady Eagles head-on. Aiza Maizo and Maika Ortiz are reaching peak form along with Pam Lastimosa, Carmela Tunay, Jessey De Leon, Loren Lantin and setter Rhea Dimaculangan.

With Maru Banaticla and Judy Caballejo also expected to be in top shape following a beach volley stint in Boracay, the España-based squad looks all set to ground the Lady Eagles in their 2 p.m. encounter of the event sponsored by Shakey’s.

Still, UST mentor Odjie Mamon said defense will be key.

“Defense will always be deciding factor because its hard to win if you let the other team score,” said Mamon.

The 4 p.m. match between the Lady Bulldogs and the Falcons also promises to be a dogfight with the former out to repeat their four-set victory over the latter in their first encounter in the elims of the tournament backed by Mikasa and Accel.