Arellano sweeps 1st round of NCAA women’s volleyball

MANILA, Philippines – Arellano University pulled the rug from under reigning three-peat champion Perpetual Help, 25-8, 20-25, 25-20, 25-13, to sweep the first round of the 90th NCAA women's volleyball tournament at The Arena in San Juan City Wednesday.

Menchie Tubiero went out firing with 23 hits, 21 of which coming off attacks while Danna Henson and Rialen Sante scattered 14 and 12, respectively, as the Lady Chiefs lead the charge into the second round with a clean 9-0 (win-loss) record.

The Lady Altas, out to snare their fourth straight championship, absorbed a second defeat against seven wins but still made it to the second round along with the Lady Chiefs, the San Sebastian Lady Stags (7-2) and the College of St. Benilde Blazers (6-2).

Arellano U is eyeing its first ever volleyball title after coming one set away from winning it last season before losing to eventual champion Perpetual Help in a heart-pounding five-setter in the deciding Game Three.

In juniors' action, Lyceum thrashed San Beda, 25-15, 25-11, 25-17, to remain on course of winning its first ever juniors volley title since joining the league three years back.

Sean Alexis Escallar paced the Junior Pirates with 15 hits while Jomaru Amagan chipped in 13 to remain unscathed in six outings.