Colegio de San Juan de Letran pulled off a historic upset as it swept three-time defending champs De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde, 25-22, 25-23, 26-24, on Saturday in the NCAA Season 100 women's volleyball tournament at the Lyceum of the Philippines University gym in Manila.
The Lady Knights snapped the Lady Blazers' 43-game winning streak dating back to NCAA Season 95 in 2020.
The last time the Taft-based squad lost was back in January 2019 in the NCAA Season 94 semifinals.
In the third set, the Lady Blazers had a chance to extend the match as they trailed 23-22. However, Judiel Nitura's attack put Letran at match point. Benilde then scored back-to-back to extend the set, but Jessa Dorog's attack went out to give the Lady Knights their 25th point. Gia Maquilang then finished the match for the Intramuros-based squad.
Yen Martin had a game-high 19 points anchored on 17 attacks and a block, while Vanessa Sarie showed consistency with 15 points from 12 attacks and three aces, on top of 12 excellent receptions. Judiel Nitura was also effective from both ends with 12 points, along with seven excellent digs as Letran improved to 3-0.
Letran head coach Oliver Almadro gave credit to his players for being determined to win.
"I credit it to the players and sabi ko nga sa kanila, no expectations. We have to learn in this game. Pero, they really want to win. They refused to lose. They really want to win so who am I as nag-ga-guide sa kanila to prevent it so they're the ones who want it," Almadro said.
"So, they want it and they asked for it and then the Lord gave it to them. So, sabi lang namin kanina, let's just have a joyful heart and offer it to the Lord. Kung anong ibibigay samin, we'll take it. Ang importante may matututunan ka."
Wielyn Estoque had 13 points to lead the Lady Blazers, while Mycah Go had nine points as Benilde slipped to 3-1.
—JKC, GMA Integrated News
