Lady Stags step up sweep bid vs Blazers

MANILA, Philippines - San Sebastian guns for the first of two wins it needs for a season sweep, clashing with St. Benilde even as Perpetual Help and Emilio Aguinaldo clash for the men’s and juniors titles today in the 91st NCAA volleyball finals at The Arena in San Juan City.

The Lady Stags pulled off a nine-game sweep of the elimination round to gain outright finals entry and a thrice-to-beat edge or a 1-0 lead in a best-of-five series against the Lady Blazers set at 4 p.m.

The men’s and juniors teams of Perpetual Help and EAC, on the other hand, face off in a pair of best-of-three showdowns at 2 p.m. and 12 noon, respectively.

San Sebastian has racked up a league-best 24 women’s championships, including 22 under coach Roger Gorayeb, while St. Benilde is out to nail its first ever crown after two failed attempts.

Gretchel Soltones is expected to lead San Sebastian’s offense again with the reigning MVP going all out to complete the rare sweep by the Lady Stags.

“She’s the heart and soul of this team but the rest must also contribute to complete our sweep,” said Gorayeb, also holder of a rare coaching grand slam after sweeping three championships with different teams in the Shakey’s V-League last year.

San Sebastian and St. Benilde will meet in the finals for the third time after the former beat the latter in 2008 via sweep. The Lady Stags scored a title repeat in 2-1 fashion last year.

In men’s play, EAC goes for a title repeat against a Perpetual Help squad looking for its 11th championship, all under mentor Sammy Acaylar.

“It’s a nice feeling to be back in the finals,” said Acaylar.

The Altas though will have their hands full against the reigning MVP Howard Mojica and the Generals.

In juniors’ action, the Junior Altas are gunning for a second straight crown, also in a best-of-three series with the Brigadiers.