Lady Falcons smother Eagles in Shakey's V-League opener

MANILA, Philippines - Adamson reasserted its mastery over Ateneo-OraCare as it scored a 25-20, 25-19, 25-18 romp in an auspicious start to its title-retention drive in the sixth season of the Shakey’s V-League at the Filoil Flying V Arena in San Juan yesterday.

Guest player Nerissa Bautista, sliding from an open spiker to a middle blocker, rattled off 14 kills for a 15-point performance while skipper Angela Benting added 14 hits as the Lady Falcons extended their domination of the Lady Eagles to seven wins in row.

 “With the way they played, I think we have a good chance to defend our crown. I just hope we will sustain our good start,” said Adamson coach Dulce Pante, whose wards toppled the Eagles to capture the first conference crown last year.

The last time Adamson lost to Ateneo was in their battle for third in the 2007 second conference but the Falcons stamped their class and swept the Eagles in all their six meetings last season.

Earlier, US Ambassador Kristie Kenney and San Juan City Mayor JV Ejercito graced the opening rites of the league’s season, sponsored by Shakey’s Pizza, organized by Sports Vision and backed by Accel, Mikasa and OraCare.

University of Santo Tomas bungled a two-set lead but recovered in time to thwart last conference’s champion San Sebastian College, 25-17, 25-19, 15-25, 13-25, 15-11, to join Adamson in the lead.

Guest player Michelle Carolina scattered 22 hits, including 18 kills, while Mary Jean Balse and Abigail Co came away with 15 and 12 hits, respectively, as the Tigresses survived the Lady Stags’ fightback to annex the win in 1:44.

“For me, Michelle is the best although she still has to improve her timing since she was still adjusting from beach to indoor volley. But I’m sure she’ll get better,” said UST mentor Cesael delos Santos.

The Lady Falcons also spoiled the debut of Ateneo-OraCare Thai import Sontaya Keawbundit, who finished with 12 attacks although the 17-year-old spiker showed a lot of promise with her power game.

Rissa Jane Laguilles also chipped in 10 hits for the Lady Falcons, who also drew a combined 17-point output from Jill Gustillo, Paulina Soriano and alumna Janet Serafica.