BACOLOD CITY , Philippines – University of Santo Tomas won twice on opening day to establish itself as the team to beat in the Shakey’s Girls Volleyball League Tournament of Champions here.
With the deadly trio of Alyssa Valdez, Aleona Santiago and Maru Banaticla leading the attack, the UST spikers routed the Tacloban’s San Jose National High School side, 25-8, 25-8, 25-13.
Earlier, UST survived Pajo National High School, 25-21, 25-18, 23-25, 24-26, 15-8, to set the stage for the double victory in the first day of competitions.
Sharing the spotlight in the five-day tournament backed by Petron Treats, Toby’s, Dunkin’ Donuts, Mikasa and Asics was host University of St. La Salle.
The host team outplayed Iloilo’s Passi National High School, 25-4, 25-11 and 25-3, in a one-sided match that lasted less than an hour.
It was also the fiery trio of Valdez, Santiago and Banaticla who took charge for UST against Pajo as the combined for 47 points with Valdez accounting for 19.