V-League: Provincial squads go the full five sets before SWU Cobras edge St. Louis U.

It took a full two hours, but eventually, the Southwestern University Lady Cobras edged St. Louis University, 25-20- 23-25 25-15 21-25 19-17, Tuesday at the FilOil Flying V Arena, in the both squads’ debuts in the Shakey’s V-League Season 11 1st Conference.

SWU, from Cebu, and St. Louis U, from Baguio, are two of the three province-based squads in the tourney, with the third being the Davao Lady Aguilas.

Marlyn Llagoso led Southwestern with 19 points, 10 from spikes and eight via blocks. Guest player Lutgarda Malaluan added 15 markers, while Sheena Quino and Janelle Cabahug contributed 12 apiece.

Krissian Tsuchiya had a game-high 26 for St. Louis, 22 via kills, two from blocks, and two via service ace.

The Lady Cobras wound up on top thanks in part to a 26-11 difference in excellent sets, and a 28-16 advantage in excellent receptions. - AMD, GMA News