SSL volleyball: Ateneo stops Arellano; UST, La Salle advance

MANILA – Ateneo de Manila University snapped Arellano University's winning run, 25-17, 25-18, 25-18, to boost its bid for a playoff berth in the 2024 Shakey's Super League Collegiate Pre-Season Championship at Rizal Memorial Coliseum in Manila on Saturday.

Zey Pacia and Lyann De Guzman scored 10 points each as the Blue Eagles joined the Lady Chiefs on top of Pool A at 2-1.

Arellano moved within 16-13 in the third set but Ateneo went on an 8-3 run, capped by Pacia's block to make it 24-16.

The Lady Chiefs saved two match points before Pacia made another block to wrap up the match.

"Coach Sergio (Veloso) told us to have a strong mind and trust ourselves," Pacia said after the Lady Eagles recovered from a loss to defending champion National University last week.

Marianne Padillon, Fhaye Mangubat, Kacelyn Punzalan and Samantha Tiratira scored five points each for the Lady Chiefs.

Meanwhile, De La Salle University and University of Santo Tomas secured their places to the next round.

Angel Canino had 15 points on 11 kills, two kill blocks and two aces as La Salle survived Letran College, 25-7, 25-21, 22-25, 25-15, to notch its second win in Pool C on Friday.

Katrina Del Castillo chipped in nine points while Amie Provido and Shane Reterta added eight points each.

Gia Maquilang scored 17 points for the Knights, who took their second loss in three outings.

UST, on the other hand, rallied past University of Perpetual Help System Dalta, 25-17, 25-17, 21-25, 25-19, for its third straight win in Pool B.

Angge Poyos had 15 points while Regina Jurado added 13 points for the Growling Tigresses, who will face the University of the East Warriors at 3:30 p.m. Sunday.

The Lady Altas, who got a combined 25 points from Cyrille Almeniana and Jazhryll Lagmay, bowed out of contention with a 0-2 card. (PNA)