SHAKEY'S V-LEAGUE SEASON 7: SWU belles tumble against SSC

CEBU, Philippines - Southwestern University's championship campaign was dealt with a crushing blow right from its opening match as the visiting Cebuano champions were overpowered by perennial NCAA titlist San Sebastian College in the Shakey’s V-League Season 7 yesterday at The Arena in San Juan City.

Although the SWU belles of coach Joerem Yu showed tenacious fighting stance on both ends, they were simply no match against their more aggressive and composed Lady Stags, who are out to improve their fourth place finish in last year’s edition of the country's premiere volleyball league.

San Sebastian raided the first set, 25-17, and then followed it up with a 25-16, 25-17 disposition in the next two frames for a total shutout of the reigning Cebu Schools Athletic Foundation, Inc. (CESAFI) champion.

"We really need to double our efforts and solidify the team’s performance," said Yu.

Despite the presence of Thai import Piyatida Lasungnern, a mainstay of Thailand’s national team who saw action in the Asian Youth Girls Volleyball Tournament and the World Youth Volleyball Championships, the Lady Cobras could not contain the powerful attacks and stonewall defense of San Sebastian all throughout the two-hour battle.

Even the likes of Erika Camille Verano, Danika Yolanda Gendrauli, Raphril Aguilar, Lorie May Layno and Danalie Baquiro were left helpless in rallying SWU to victory that could have assured them of a spot into the quarterfinal round.

“We couldn't just size up their skills. But what we're looking up in the V-League is the exposure and experience our players will gain, which will surely be a great help in future tournaments,” said SWU athletic director Ryan Aznar.

Although they just need one win to proceed into the next phase of the competition, it's still a meandering journey ahead for the SWU mainstays as they face next defending champion University of Sto. Tomas (UST) at 6 pm tomorrow. (FREEMAN NEWS)