ARELLANO University turned back San Sebastian, 25-18, 25-15, 20-25, 25-19, to draw first blood in the best-of-three finals of the NCAA women's volleyball tournament on Wednesday at The Arena in San Juan.
Danna Henson scored 18, including 15 on spikes, while CJ Rosario, Menchie Tubiera and Rialen Sante chipped in 15, 13 and 11, respectively, for the Lady Chiefs, who are one win away from their first ever crown since joining the league five years ago.
"We hope to win it in Game Two," said Arellano coach Roberto Javier.
Meanwhile, College of St. Benilde edged Emilio Aguinaldo College, 27-25, 25-20, 23-25, 26-24, in the opener of the men's finale.
Johnvic de Guzman scored 26 points for the Blazers, eyeing their first win since joining the league almost two decades back.
“Unlike in our earlier meetings, we were a little bit relaxed, which really helped us,” said St. Benilde coach Arnold Laniog.
Howard Mojica of EAC also scored 26 points.
The second matches of the finals are set on Friday. Deciders, if necessary, will be played on Monday.
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