The De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde (DLS-CSB) Benilde Blazers and Lady Blazers rolled past the San Sebastian College-Recoletos (SSC-R) Golden Stags and Lady Stags, 3-1 and 3-2, respectively, today, March 3, at the Emilio Aguinaldo College (EAC) Gym in Manila City.

The Benilde Blazers lost their rhythm early in the match as the Recto squad opened with Jan Kerk Araño to claim the first set, 21-25. Taft responded with a reversal of fates as Rocky Motol led Benilde’s offensive to claim the second canto, 25-21. Benilde rode this momentum with Dexter Graniada at their helm, hunted and shut down all attempts by the Golden Stags to seal their victory at 3-1. 

Riding high from the Blazers’ win, Zam Nolasco spearheaded the Lady Blazers in the first set with crucial kills and smart plays to secure a tight victory, 25-22. However, the Lady Stags answered with Juna Gonzales leading their offense and edging out a 23-25 win. Gonzales continued her dominance in the third set that gave the Recto squad another 25-23 set win, putting the Taft squad on the back foot. 

In the fourth canto, the momentum shifted as the Lady Blazers came back with determination, showcasing relentless attacks and impenetrable blocks that turned the tide in their favor, 25-13. Riding that wave of confidence, the women in green and white carried their momentum into the deciding set, jumped to an early lead and ultimately sealed the match with a commanding 15-5 victory. 

Graniada claimed the Player of the Game crown with 21 points on 19 attacks, while Nolasco scored 28 points on 18 attacks, 8 blocks, and 2 aces. 

Set Scores: 

Blazers: 21-25, 25-21, 25-18, 25-17

Lady Blazers: 25-22, 23-25, 23-25, 25-13, 15-5