Defending champion University of Santo Tomas and De La Salle University extended their unbeaten streak to five on Saturday after dispatching their respective foes in the 73rd UAAP women’s volleyball tournament at The Arena in San Juan. Seeking a second straight title, the Tigresses made short work of University of the East Red Skirts, 25-7, 25-14, 25-10, while the Lady Archers trounced winless Far Eastern University, 25-15, 20-25, 25-12, 25-20.
With their victories, UST and La Salle, the protagonists in last year’s finals, remain tied for the lead or within two victories short of completing a seven-game sweep of the first round.
Judy Caballejo pumped in 16 points while lefty Aiza Maizo added 11 markers as UST, which will celebrate its 400th founding anniversary next month needed just 56 minutes to send the Lady Warriors to their fourth loss in six games.
Meanwhile, Jacqueline Alarca registered 21 points while Stephanie Mercado had 17 and Abigail Marano added 14 markers to help La Salle recover from a second set defeat.
The Lady Tamaraws fell to a dismal 0-5 slate, the worst start in years for a team that three seasons ago claimed a 29th championship.
In men’s volleyball action, defending champion UST and FEU remained tied for the lead after beating separate rivals.
The Tigers blasted Adamson, 25-18, 25-15, 25-16, while the Tams downed La Salle, 25-18, 25-18, 25-21.
Jonas Terrado, Manila Bulletin
