By MARK REY MONTEJO
Reigning champion University of Perpetual Help shook off a second-set stumble and trounced San Sebastian, 25-16, 23-25, 25-19, 25-17, for its third straight win in the NCAA Season 101 Volleyball Fiesta at the Arellano Gym in Pasay City Monday, March 9.
After a fiery opening show, the Junior Altas wavered in the second set which the Staglets exploited to knot the count at 1-set apiece.
Skipper Gabriel Macatuno, however, rose to the occasion and sparked the Juniors Altas’ attack in the next two sets, coming through with a torrent of heavy spikes that the Staglets tried but failed to overcome.
With its win, Perpetual assured itself of a twice-to-beat advantage in the quarterfinals with a 10-2 card at No. 2 with Mapua leading the way at 10-1. San Sebastian dropped to 4-7 but stayed in the play-in position.
It turned out to be a crucial win as Perpetual is set for an exciting matchup against Mapua with the winner taking the No. 1 spot in their bracket.
Letran and Arellano are likewise certain of quarters bonus in Group with similar 9-2 records. Jose Rizal University (3-7) turned out to be their closest pursuer in the unit.
Macatuno led Perptual with 18 points for the Sandy Rieta-mentored crew, while Cholo Bustamante and Limuel Villarama chipped in 16 and 12 points, respectively.
Also leading the way for Perpetual was setter Donald Sison who posted 11 excellent sets and seven receptions.
