Arellano eyes quarters berth in V-League

Games Tuesday

(The Arena, San Juan)

2 p.m. - Arellano vs St. Louis-Baguio

4 p.m. - San Sebastian vs NU

MANILA, Philippines – Arellano U seeks to formalize its entry to the quarterfinals as it clashes with winless St. Louis of Baguio City Tuesday in the Shakey's V-League Season 11-1st Conference at The Arena in San Juan City.

The Lady Chiefs have won their first three assignments, including a 25-19, 25-17, 25-16 bashing of NCAA rivals College of St. Benilde Lady Blazers and a 21-25, 25-16, 17-25, 25-20, 15-13 victory over reigning UAAP champions Ateneo Lady Eagles last week that sent it straight to the top of Group A.

Another win in their 2 p.m. duel with the Lady Navigators, who dropped their first two outings, will clinch Arellano U, which finished second behind eventual champion Perpetual Help in the NCAA, the berth in the quarters.

"We need to continue to play defense especially our blocking and reception for us to keep the streak going," said Arellano U coach Obet Javier in Filipino.

Arellano U is expected to draw strength from Danna Henson, Cristine Rosario and Jovielyn Prado, who have spearheaded the Legarda-based lady spikers' early charge with their strong plays at the net.

National U, for its part, aims to keep its unblemished slate and lead in Group B as it tackles an unpredictable San Sebastian in the other match at 4 p.m.

The Lady Bulldogs will parade its vaunted attacking game headed by the towering sister pair of 6-3 Dindin and 6-6 Jaja Santiago.

But NU mentor Ariel dela Cruz thinks they will need to draw more support from the other players to continue to succeed.

"Yes, Dindin and Jaja are strong players but this is a team game, we need everyone to play," said dela Cruz.

The Lady Stags, who split their first two matches, in contrast, are still hoping for the return of top player Gretchel Soltones, who remains doubtful after sustaining a sprained ankle in their first game defeat to the Far Eastern U Lady Tams.