Sandugo-SSC defuses Ateneo, moves to final

MANILA, Philippines - Sandugo-San Sebastian flexed just enough muscle to finish off an undermanned Ateneo, 25-9, 25-14, 25-19, and cruise to the finals of the Shakey’s V-League Open at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium yesterday.

The Lady Stags imposed their power game on the shorthanded Lady Eagles and punched in 50 kills off 105 total attacks, led by Thai reinforcement Jeng Bualee who banged in 22 spikes, as the top seeds followed up their 25-13, 25-20, 25-9 conquest in Game 1 with another straight-set romp to complete the semis sweep.

“There was hardly any pressure, psychologically and physically, since Ateneo was short on personnel. We just took full advantage of it,” said Lady Stags coach Roger Gorayeb in Filipino

The Lady Eagles showed up with only seven players for Game 2 due to academic commitments. With school exams ongoing, Ateneo’s players are forced to “schedule” their stints in the league sponsored by Shakey’s Pizza and backed by Mikasa and Accel.

Dzu Gervacio (eight points) and Gretchen Ho (six) led the Atenean crew yesterday while Fille Cainglet and Alyssa Valdez along with five others, attended to their school duties.

Pouncing on Ateneo’s manpower woes, the Lady Stags secured the first set in only 18 minutes and annexed the second frame in just a minute longer. 

The Lady Eagles put up a final stand in the third frame and got to within 19-20 but Sandugo captain Suzanne Roces and Angela Benting quickly restored order and won the next six points for the clincher.

“At least, we’re going to the finals relaxed, without having to go through the wringer,” said Gorayeb, who also drew nine markers each from Roces and Benting.

The Lady Stags will meet the winner of the other semis pairing between Cagayan-Perpetual and defending champion Army. The Rising Suns were gunning for the other finals berth via a semis sweep at presstime.

“Whoever we’ll face in the finals, it’s gonna be tough because both of them are strong teams,” said Gorayeb.

Meanwhile, Game One of the semis will be aired on AKTV on Sept. 18 starting at 7 p.m. with Game Two to be telecast on Sept. 19 at 5 p.m., according to the organizing Sports Vision.