LAOAG completed the V-League Open semifinal cast after it turned back University of the Philippines, 25-21, 19-25, 25-22, 26-24, on Monday at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig City.
The Power Smashers (4-3) join Pocari Sweat (6-0), Air Force (5-1) and Bali Pure (5-2) in the next round.
Pocari and Air Force face off in the final elimination-round match, with the winner getting the No. 1 spot and will battle No. 4 Laoag.
“’Yung unang goal namin na makapasok sa Final Four medyo na-achieve na namin so sunod naming paghahandaan itong semis naman,” said Laoag coach Nes Pamilar.
The best-of-three semifinals start on Wednesday.
Arellano University standout Jovielyn Prado led the Power Smashers with 23 points with 22 hits, while Adamson pair Mylene Paat and Jessica Galanza combined for 27 points.
Diana Carlos scored 19, Isa Molde added 16 points and Nicole Tiamzon chipped in 11 for the Lady Maroons, who finished the tournament with a 3-4 win-loss card.
Pamilar said he never doubted his wards despite a late surge by the Lady Maroons.
“Sabi ko nga ‘yung tiwala at kumpyansa nila nandoon na kaya nilang tapusin,” said Pamilar.
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