CEBU, Philippines - The University of Southern Philippines (USPF) women’s team and the University of the Visayas men’s squad lost in the finals of the 13th Nestea Beach Volley National Circuit ’09 Visayas eliminations at the jampacked Piazza Area of Parkmall in the north reclamation area yesterday.
Julie Anne Billote and Ruby Rose Bordon of the University of Negros Occiental – Recoletos fended off USPF’s Erika Camille Verano and Apple Saraum in the women’s final 21-18, 21-17.
In the men’s division, the tandem of Arnel Amadeo and Buensuciso Sayson from Foundation University, the defending national champion, got the better of UV’s Jade Becaldo and Precioso Bendijo 21-17, 21-18.
The University of San Jose – Recoletos, another Cebu team, grabbed third place in the men’s division after Ariel Carumba and Loujei Tipgos whipped Jason Labuyo and Belson of Iloilo Doctors College (IDC) 21-10, 21-19.
SPF, UV and USJ-R, however, all earned tickets to the national finals in Boracay.
Taking the defeat in stride, the 19-year-old Verano said, “We have greater advantage this year because of Apple’s (Saraum) powerful attacks and her height is also an advantage.”
Saraum added, “ We will have our practice everyday in order for us to succeed in the national finals in Boracay. We have to make it happen if we are to win the title.”
The duo leaves today for Bicol to compete in the National PRISAA.
UV coach Raffy Briones said he’s happy to land in the top two spot. “We are happy and proud that we were able to make it to the top two at least we meant what we said earlier, ‘to expect the unexpected’. Next week we will begin our intense practices and work hard for the national finals.” — Marigold P. Lebumfacil (THE FREEMAN)