CHAMPIONS yet again.
National University ruled the Shakey’s Super League (SSL) National Invitationals for the first time by completing a two-game title series sweep over Far Eastern University, 25-21, 23-25, 20-25, 25-19, 15-10, on Tuesday at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.
Alas Pilipinas’ one-two punch caught fire early and saved the reigning UAAP champions from a 1-2 hole as Arah Panique stole the show with 27 points on 17 attacks, six aces and four blocks.
Two-time UAAP MVP Bella Belen’s 25-piece capped a hard-fought title-clinching effort for NU.
Kaye Bombita added 11 markers in the come-from-behind championship victory.
Falling ever-so short in back-to-back five-setters, Gerz Petallo steered the Lady Tamaraws just a few steps shy from the finish line with 20 points.
Veteran aces Chenie Tagaod and Jean Asis pitched in 18 and 12 markers, respectively.
The Lady Bulldogs have now won three of the last four SSL conferences — two of which came during the inaugural Collegiate Pre-season Championships.
Meanwhile, NCAA titlist College of St. Benilde captured the bronze medal over league rival Letran, 23-25, 25-14, 19-25, 25-20, 17-15, in another five-set marathon led by Rhea Densing’s 24 markers and Wewe Estoque’s 18 points.
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