La Salle spikers streak to No. 13

MANILA, Philippines - La Salle walloped University of the East, 25-10, 25-14, 25-20, yesterday to clinch the top seeding in the Final Four in the women’s division of the 72nd UAAP volleyball tournament at The Arena in San Juan City.

Stephanie Mercado, daughter of former Asian sprint queen Lydia de Vega-Mercado, exploded with 18 hits, including four service aces, while Jacqueline Alarca scattered 12 points she laced with four blocks to power the Lady Archers to their 13th straight victory.

La Salle, meanwhile, goes for a sweep of the eliminations against arch rival University of Santo Tomas on Sunday in what could be a preview of this year’s championship.

“We’re not thinking of a sweep and we are not pressured to achieve it by school management. We all just wanted to win,” said La Salle coach Ramil de Jesus.

In men’s action, JP Torres unloaded 12 hits as UST smashed Adamson, 25-19, 25-22, 25-17, to likewise gain the top seeding in the Final Four with a 12-1 (win-loss) record.

Joshua Alcarde, for his part, uncorked 13 hits as Far Eastern U smothered National U to remain in second on 11-2 card.

La Salle is eyeing to duplicate its feat in 2004 when it swept its way to the championship.

The Amazons fell to their 12th setback against a win.