UE, Sta. Elena tossers gain LBC volley semis

MANILA, Philippines - University of the East completed its weekend romp in the first LBC Men’s Volleyball League as it swamped Ateneo, 25-7, 25-15, at the Arellano gym yesterday to sweep the single round eliminations and gain the top seeding in the semifinal round.

Kim Recolpan, Von Mari and Kim Sawal made four kills apiece for the Junior Warriors, who also booted out Colegio San Agustin, 25-15, 25-14, last Saturday.

It was UE’s fifth straight victory in the tournament sponsored by LBC Hari ng Padala as it swept the six-team Juniors A division. The Junior Warriors will face the No. 2 team in Juniors B, headed by Angeles University Foundation, St. Francis of Assisi-Bacoor and Mayamot National High School.

Sta. Elena High School secured the No. 2 spot in Juniors A as it ousted National U, 25-10, 25-19.

Angelo Torres finished with seven kills and four blocks while Christian dela Paz and Mark Espejo added five and four attacks, respectively.

AUF pulled off a thrilling 28-26, 19-25, 27-25 victory over University of Santo Tomas to force a three-way tie for the lead with SFAC and Mayamot at 3-1 in the tournament backed by Shakey’s Pizza, Toby’s Sports, Dunkin’ Donuts, Mikasa and Asics.

UST closed out with a 3-2 card.

Chris Pingul scored 12 kills and two aces while Angelito Santos added eight kills for AUF, which also drew six attacks and three blocks from Edgar Avillon.

SFAC trounced ISM, 25-9, 25-9, as Aries Yabut and Imran Bagonte fired eight kills apiece.

Robin Marcial also shone for the Cavite-based squad with six attacks and three service aces.