By Kristel Satumbaga
Jose Rizal University continued its amazing run as it outlasted the fancied San Sebastian College side in a thrilling duel, 25-21, 18-25, 22-25, 25-20, 15-9, Friday to stay in finals contention in the 97th NCAA volleyball tournament at the Filoil Flying V Centre.
Dolly Versoza starred for JRU’s win in the first of the stepladder semis as she produced two huge hits in the fifth and deciding set to help lead the Lady Bombers arrange another knockout semis game against No. 2 Arellano on Sunday.
The Kalentong-based spikers, who are making their second semis appearance in league history, are hoping to go all the way this time at all cost.
While Verzosa delivered the crucial hits and finished with 16 points, it was Renesa Melgar who kept JRU afloat by pumping in 18 points built on 14 kills and four blocks.
They first made it to the semis four years ago but lost to eventual champions the Arellano Lady Chiefs.
For beating SSC, JRU got the chance to avenge that defeat.
The winner on Sunday will earn the right to face undefeated College of St. Benilde in the finals which is a best-of-three affair.
The Lady Blazers advanced outright to the finals after completing a 9-game sweep of the elims.
The absence of Reyann Canete proved costly for SSC – being the team’s No. 2 scorer. She sprained her right ankle during practice the day before.