Lady Chiefs topple Lady Altas in NC volleyball

MANILA, Philippines - Arellano U stunned 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 yesterday.

Menchie Tubiero fired 23 hits, including 21 attacks, while Danna Henson and Rialen Sante scattered 14 and 12 points, respectively, for the Lady Chiefs, who will head to the second round with a 9-0 record.

The Lady Altas, seeking their fourth straight championship, fell to 7-2 but still made it to the second round along with the Lady Chiefs, the San Sebastian Lady Stags and the College of St. Benilde Blazers.

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

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

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