By ADRIAN STEWART CO

The De La Salle University (DLSU) Lady Spikers overcame a tough challenge from the Ateneo de Manila University Blue Eagles, 25-18, 25-20, 20-25, 20-25, 17-15, in the Shakey’s Super League Collegiate Pre-season Championship at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum on Sunday, November 3.

Negrense Angel Canino led the way for the Lady Spikers with 17 points, on 15 attacks, one block and a service ace, while Shevana Laput contributed 16 markers, on 13 attacks, two blocks and an ace in the win.

Ilongga Amie Provido stepped up offensively with 13 points, built on seven attacks, three blocks and three service aces, to be named Player of the Game for the semifinals-bound Lady Spikers.

“Nung first two sets namin medyo nawala kami sa composure, so pinaalalahanan kami ng coaches na gumalaw and mag-stick lang sa sistema,” Provido said in a post-game interview.

“Maganda ‘yung binigay na composure sa amin ng game na ito. Talagang na-test kami kasi ito ‘yung first fifth set game namin [dito sa Shakey’s], kaya mas pag-iigihan pa namin sa semis,” she added.

Lyann de Guzman finished with 17 points to banner the Blue Eagles’ offense, Sophia Beatriz Buena added 12 markers, while Bacolodnon rookies Jihan Chuatico and Alexia Montoro ended with four points each.

Meanwhile, the Far Eastern University Lady Tamaraws also secured their place in the semifinals round after a 21-25, 25-20, 25-17, 25-17 victory over the College of St. Benilde Lady Blazers.

Chenie Tagaod led the Lady Tamaraws with 15 points./ASC, WDJ