AU spikers seize solo NCAA lead

MANILA, Philippines - Arellano University shut down San Sebastian top spiker Gretchel Soltones as it eked out a 25-21, 15-25, 25-14, 25-18 victory yesterday to snatch the solo lead in the 90th NCAA women’s volleyball tournament at The Arena in San Juan City.

CJ Rosario and Menchie Tubiera fired 12 hits apiece while Danna Henson added 11 points as the Lady Chiefs recovered from a second set defeat to foil the Lady Stags and nail their sixth straight victory for the solo lead.

The Lady Stags tumbled to their first setback after five straight wins and dropped to joint second with the Perpetual Help Altalettes.

With Rosario keeping Soltones in check, the Lady Chiefs dominated the third and fourth sets. The top SSC open hitter struggled with a season-low four hits.

Meanwhile, Jose Rizal University downed Mapua, 25-21, 23-25, 25-15, 25-12, to remain in the middle of the pack at 4-3.

Power-spiking Maria Shola Alvarez unloaded 25 hits, including 19 on kills, while team captain Rosali Pepito and Elaine Eunice Caridad chipped in 11 markers apiece.