MANILA, Philippines – Defending champion Alabang and Tagaytay Highlands scored the first two sweep wins of the season to gain the upperhand in the race for the two automatic semifinal berths after the recent Week 4 matches of the Ladies Federation League.
Alabang swept Riviera at home, 4-0, then returned the week after with a 3-1 away victory to zoom ahead in Group 1 with 7 points on three wins and a loss. The Alabang ladies earned an extra point for the 4-0 win.
Highlands, meanwhile, came out of two straight draws with Sta. Elena by trashing Manila Southwoods in their home-and-away series. The Highlanders started with a 4-0 sweep at their home course then nearly pulled off a back-to-back sweep before settling for a 3-1 result at Southwoods, losing the best-ball match on the last hole.
After gaining three points in its most recent match, Highlands seized the lead in Group 2 with 7 points, just a point up on Forest Hills which figured in a draw with Sta. Elena as both teams finished their series duel with a couple of 2-2 draws.
Sta. Elena has drawn all of its first four matches to stay in third place going into its final eliminations duel with Manila Southwoods.
Valley and Orchard split their series with both teams winning at home to stay tied at 4 points heading into their last games. Valley takes on Riviera, languishing at the cellar with 2 points, and Orchard playing Alabang.
Highlands closes out its elims campaign against Forest Hills in a crucial duel today and next week.