By: Rich Longakit
Letran regains its composure with a double takedown of Lyceum in the NCAA Season 99 Men's and Women's Volleyball tournaments. Photo courtesy of Kyla Anne Velasco of The LANCE.
Men’s Division
The Letran Knights defeated the Lyceum of the Philippines 25-20, 21-25, 25-23, 25-19 In the NCAA Season 99 men's volleyball tournament at the FilOil EcoOil Centre this morning.
Dennis Domalanta, back from a six-game layoff, led the Knights to victory over LPU with an excellent 16-point performance, including 14 attacks and two blocks, and his influence was instant, sparking Letran's offense along with middle blocker Vince Himzon, who scored 22 markers on 20 assaults and two blocks.
Domalanta's critical plays, notably his quick attacks that established a four-point lead, laid the groundwork for Himzon's onslaught of forceful strikes, which increased Letran's lead to five points, 20-15, in the final frame.
The six foot one middle blockers' precise strikes sealed the victory for Letran, which was aided by Bautista's 15 points and contributions from Steven Sta. Maria and John Lorenzo who had nine points each.
On the opposite side, Jun Edang led LPU with a game-high 26 points, followed by Gian Edang with 10.
Women’s Division
After a two-game skid, the Letran Lady Knights took out the Lyceum of the Philippines, 24-26, 25-20, 25-22, 25-22, for their fifth win in the preliminary round of the NCAA Season 99 women’s volleyball tourney.
Gia Maquilang’s 18 points, 16 digs, and eight catches along with Yen Martin’s 16 points on 13 attacks and three blocks spearheaded the Lady Knights to the win after underwhelming performances in their game against Mapua last Friday, April 26.
Although the Lady Pirates dominated the first set, the Lady Knights fought back to take control of the next three sets, regaining momentum.
Despite a five-point deficit in the fourth set, the Lady Knights rallied, led by Maquilang's consecutive hits and aided by Judiel Nitura's crucial block, Coach Oliver Almadro’s squad evened the score.
Letran took a 22-19 lead thanks to aggressive play, which included two consecutive aces. A few plays later, LPU’s Venice Puzon dropped an ace to close the difference to one point but a crucial net error secured the Lady Knights' victory.
The Lady Pirates were led by Janeth Tulang who finished with 19 points on 14 attacks and five blocks while Joan Doguna and Denise Dolorita delivered 14 and 12, respectively.
Letran’s volleyball teams look to continue their push for a final four placement after the elimination round as they clash with San Beda University this coming Saturday, May 4.