Backed by an explosive Thai guest player, Ateneo opens its drive for a first ever crown against an equally formidable Far Eastern University side at the start of the Shakey’s V-League Season 8 today at The Arena in San Juan City.

Game time is 2 p.m. with the returning Lithawat Kesinee expected to provide firepower at the net for the Lady Eagles, who are bidding to improve on their Final 4 showing last conference.

Kesinee, 29, played for Ateneo in 2007, the same year she won the MVP award and set a record in scoring, firing 37 points in a game, while swatting 12 shots in another outing.

She will rejoin a team parading an almost intact line up bannered by Gretchen Ho, Kara Acevedo, Dzi Gervacio, Fille Cainglet and another guest player in Alyssa Valdez.

But the Lady Tamaraws are out to spoil Kesinee’s comeback as they try to prove they are also title contenders with long-time guest player Rachel Anne Dacquis spearheading their offensive thrust.

Hoping to better its fourth place finish last conference, FEU will be led by Kathlene Magsumbol Ina Sy, Gyzelle Sy, Maica Morada and second guest player Wenneth Eulalio.

National University and University of Perpetual Help, clash in the second game at 4 p.m.

University of Santo Tomas is not defending its title this year citing injuries that hit its roster. Also absent is reigning UAAP champion La Salle.

Despite their absences, league organizers see another banner conference.

The Lady Bulldogs have enlisted three guest players for this conference – Dindin Santiago and ex-FEU players Mumay Vivas and Monique Tiangco.

Using three reinforcements instead of the usual two is a new option offered by league organizers to level the playing field. A team can enlist three guest players provided they are enrolled students of a school in the country.

Francis Santiago, Manila Bulletin