San Beda University outlasted Mapua University, 25-21, 24-26, 21-25, 28-26, 15-13, in the do-or-die quarterfinal match on Friday at the Alonte Sports Arena in Laguna to advance to the NCAA Season 101 women’s volleyball semifinals for the first time since 2019.
The victory came after San Beda absorbed a loss to Mapua in their first quarterfinal encounter last Wednesday, forcing a decider.
Angel Habacon powered the Lady Red Spikers with 28 points, all from attacks, while adding 21 digs and 12 receptions. The third-year standout sealed the win for the Mendiola-based squad despite a late rally from the Lady Cardinals.
Janelle Bachar provided strong support with 26 points built on 23 attacks and three blocks.
The win spoiled Raissa Ricablanca’s 24-point performance and Freighanne Garcia’s all-around effort of 21 points and 30 receptions for the Intramuros-based side.
With the victory, the Lady Red Spikers will face Group B top seed Colegio de San Juan de Letran in a best-of-three semifinal series starting Sunday.
—JKC, GMA Integrated News
