The De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde (DLS-CSB) Lady Blazers outlasted the Colegio De San Juan De Letran (CSJL) Lady Knights in a five-set thriller match to open the Shakey’s Super League on July 11 at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium in Manila City.
Interestingly, the game was a rematch of the NCAA Season 99 finals. It was evident that the reigning champions were still finding their groove after the departure of their four veterans. On the other side of the court, the Lady Knights’ hunger to win was obvious from the minute they stepped foot on the court. Their confidence and intensity rewarded them with a comfortable lead throughout the opening set. Letran sophomore Gia Maquilang delivered three successful attacks to capture the first set, 18-25.
Thankfully for the Lady Blazers, outside hitter Wielyn Estoque and middle-blocker Zam Nolasco anchored the team and staged a 5-1 run, setting the tone in the second set, which helped even the slate, 25-20, with both teams tied, 1-1.
The succeeding set was a battle of duos with Maquilang and libero Lea Tapang leading the way for the Muralla squad, against Estoque and Nolasco who continued to flare for the Lady Blazers. Natalie Estreller executed a beautiful drop attack to send Letran to set point, but Benilde team captain Jessa Dorog countered with a drop shot of her own to tie the score. Ultimately, a timely block by Angelique Ledesma secured the set for the Lady Knights, 25-27.
The Taft squad recalibrated and responded with an impressive team effort. Unforced errors by the Lady Knights cost them their advantage as the ladies in green and white stayed alive to extend the game, 25-20.
The deciding set was a see-saw battle between the NCAA finalists until the very end. Powerful attacks by Lady Knights’ Martin and Maquilang were countered by Clydel Catarig and Estoque who reclaimed the lead for Benilde. Just when a crucial service error gave Letran a chance to bounce back, Nolasco sealed the victory with a drop shot to take home the win for the Lady Blazers, 15-13.
Estoque was hailed player of the game with a remarkable 26 points.
Catch the Lady Blazers as they face the University of San Carlos (USC) today, July 12, at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium, with live coverage on the Shakey’s Super League Facebook page.
Set scores: 18-25, 25-20, 25-27, 25-20, 15-13
