The University of Perpetual Help System DALTA gutted out a 25-21, 18-25, 25-23, 17-25, 16-14 win against reigning champion De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde in the NCAA Season 101 women’s volleyball tournament on Sunday at the San Andres Sports Complex.
Cyrille Almeniana erupted for 27 points together with 12 digs as the Lady ALTAs secured their first win against the Lady Blazers in seven years.
The last time the Las Piñas crew got one over the Taft side was in January 2019.
However, it wasn’t a one-woman show for Perpetual with veteran Shai Omipon chipping in 12 markers and 21 receptions to help the Lady ALTAs launch their Season 101 campaign on a winning note.
A Jemalyn Menor push from the left wing allowed Perpetual to surge to the match point at 14-12.
The Lady Blazers then displayed a familiar championship poise with middle blockers Camila Bartolome and Zam Nolasco scoring the next teo points to force a deadlock.
Almeniana, however, went down-the-line on her next attack, bringing Perpetual to another match point before Charisse Enrico sent back Nolasco’s attack to seal the victory.
Enrico finished with 11 points anchored on five blocs while Menor chipped in 10 markers.
The loss spoiled a 25-point outing from Nolasco as the Lady Blazers dropped to a 1-1 card early in the season.
In the men’s game, Benilde bounced back from an opening-day loss to Mapua University with a 25-22, 25-23, 21-25, 25-19 win against Perpetual.
Reigning MVP Rocky Motol did it all with 21 points and 18 receptions while Mike Balbacal and Reymark Betco chimed in with 14 and 13 markers apiece.
—JKC, GMA Integrated News
