COLLEGE of Saint Benilde (CSB) made quick work of titleholder Arellano University, 25-21, 25-11, 25-10, to move on the cusp of completing a perfect season in the National Collegiate Athletic Association women’s volleyball tournament on Wednesday at the Filoil Flying V Centre.
The Lady Blazers, who last played in July 9, were briefly challenged by the Lady Chiefs in the opening set.
Cess Bello’s kill gave Arellano University a 12-11 lead before CSB finally got into the groove as Go closed out the opening set with back-to-back points.
The Lady Blazers were dominant in the next two to close out in 68 minutes.
Gayle Pascual came through with 17 points, including three blocks, to lead CSB in claiming a 1-0 series lead.
Unbeaten in 10 matches this season, the Lady Blazers go for the jugular in Game 2 set at 2 p.m. Friday in the same San Juan arena.
Pascual refused to count the Lady Chiefs out just yet.
“The season’s not over,” Pascual said. “Even though we won Game 1, there’s still Game 2, and possibly Game 3.”
Michelle Gamit had two blocks for an 11-point outing, Mycah Go added eight points, 12 digs and four receptions, while Jade Gentapa also collected 12 digs to go with seven points for CSB.
Second setter Chenae Basarte fired three of her team’s six service aces.
The Lady Blazers gun for their first championship since 2016 behind Jeanette Panaga, Jannine Navarro, Ranya Musa and Djanel Cheng.
Carla Donato led the Lady Chiefs with nine points, including two blocks, while Trina Abay hammered seven kills.