Alabang, Highlands boost bid

MANILA, Philippines - Alabang and Highlands boosted their respective bids for a semifinals seat after posting contrasting wins at the resumption of the Ladies Federation League in various venues recently.

After being dealt its first loss by Riviera in its last outing, Alabang came out of the long break to avenge that defeat with a rousing 3.5-.5 victory and stay on top of the standings. Earning another extra point with its third sweep win in the season, Alabang moved up to 12 points on four wins, a loss and a draw.

Highlands swept its series with Sta. Elena, following up a 4-0 rout at home with a 2.5-1.5 decision to remain in second place at 10 points on three wins, a loss and two draws.

Both teams need just another victory to assure their semifinal stints.

Southwoods also scored two victories over defending champion Orchard, first a 2.5-1.5 decision at home and then a better 3-1 result in their opponent’s lair last week to tie their victims for third place at 6 points.

Orchard hogs the cellar with 3 points on a win, four losses and a draw and like Sta. Elena, fifth at 5 points on two wins, three losses and a draw, needs a strong finish to salvage a seat in the Final Four.

On April 22, Orchard hosts Highlands, Alabang plays at Sta. Elena and Southwoods takes on Riviera at home. The six teams switch courses the next week April 22 before the final home-and-away matches are played on April 30 and May 6 with Highlands battling Alabang, Orchard meeting Riviera and Southwoos colliding with Sta. Elena.