TOP SCORER. Letran's Gia Marcel Maquilang tries to score against Perpetual's Razel Paula Aldea (No. 15) and Charmaine Mae Ocado (No. 9) in the NCAA Season 99 women’s volleyball tournament at the Filoil EcoOil Arena in San Juan on Saturday (April 13, 2024). Maquilang led the Lady Knights for the 25-21, 25-20, 30-28 win. (NCAA photo)
MANILA – Letran outplayed University of Perpetual Help, 25-21, 25-20, 30-28, to gain a share of the lead in the NCAA Season 99 women’s volleyball tournament at the Filoil EcoOil Arena in San Juan on Saturday.
Rookie Gia Marcel Maquilang delivered 19 points, including two kills in the third set, as Letran joined defending champion College of Saint Benilde and last season's runner-up Lyceum of the Philippines on top at 2-0.
Nizelle Aeriyen Martin had 10 points and 10 digs, while Marie Judiel Nitura added nine points for the Lady Knights, who pulled off a 16-25, 25-17, 25-17, 25-17 victory over three-time champion Arellano University Lady Chiefs on Wednesday.
Team captain Lara Mae Silva made 22 excellent digs and 22 receptions, while Natalie Marie Estreller had 18 excellent sets to go with four points.
“I thank my players because of the hard work, sacrifices, belief, and faith in the system at sarili nila (and themselves),” head coach Oliver Almadro said after the one-hour and 43-minute match.
Shaila Allaine Omipon had 17 attacks and two aces for Perpetual, which is tied with Jose Rizal University at 1-1.
Winnie Bedana and Cyrille Joie Alemeniana chipped in seven and six points, respectively, while Joanna Denise Lozano produced 22 excellent digs and 13 receptions.
In the men's division, reigning MVP Louie Ramirez had 25 attacks and two blocks as Perpetual defeated Letran, 26-24, 25-21, 25-19, to join Emilio Aguinaldo College on top of the standings at 2-0.
Vince Himzon finished with 13 attacks and two blocks for the Knights, who absorbed their first loss in two outings. (PNA)
