By NIKOLE JAVIER
Even without head coach Ramil de Jesus, La Salle debuted on winning note, beating UAAP rival Far Eastern University in five thrilling sets, 25-13, 19-25, 21-25, 25-22, 15-8, in the Shakey’s Super League Collegiate Pre-season Championship on Saturday, Oct. 1, at the Rizal Memorial Stadium in Manila.
Alleiah Malaluan starred for La Salle with 13 points off 11 attacks, a block and an ace.
The Lady Tamaraws came into the game with renewed vigor after stunning NCAA champion College of St. Benilde but the Lady Spikers – with assistant coach Noel Orcullo calling the shots – were equally ready, being the steadier in the crunch.
On the other end, Perpetual prevailed over University of the East, 25-22, 27-25, 25-16, to grab the Pool A leadwith a 2-0 record.
Promising rookie Shaila Omipon, who made a rousing debut last week for the Lady Altas, came through with another impressive performance of 13 points, while Mary Rhose and Razel Aldea added 10 points apiece.
After coming off a late-night five-setter thriller against Adamson last week, University of Santo Tomas sustained its winning form and made short work of San Sebastian, 25-18, 25-21, 25-16, to take the Pool B lead.
Mae Coronado took the charge for the Lady Tigresses, scoring eight of her career game-high 12 points in the closing set while junior standout Regina Jurado made a successful transition into the collegiate ranks with a 10-point performance.
Meantime, Ateneo downed NCAA runner-up Arellano, 25-14, 30-28, 25-17 to open their SSL campaign on high note..
Faith Nisperos led Ateneo with 16 points built on 12 attacks, 1 block, and 2 aces.
