Batch 2006 to 2009 outduelled the 80s and 70s in a three-setter thriller, 25-22, 25-27, 25-15, to secure the No. 2 spot in the 1st SJI Volleybelles Friendship Cup at the SJI Activity Center.

Rallying from a six-point first set deficit, 2006-09 spikers Jhessa Lio scored six points while Carmela Suarez and Stephanie Maapni had five points each to win the set.

Falling behind once again at the start of the second set, 2006-09 managed to come back from a 9-17 deficit but the effort fell short as 70s and 80s spikers, led by setter Marivic Rio and  Jessica Jereza Plana, held their ground equalize the game.

In the decider, 2006-09 came out firing for an early 14-2 advantage making it difficult for the 70s/80s to catch up.

Stepping up their attacks, 2006-09 showed better defense with Catherine Suarez scoring nine points with seven spikes while Patrice Romero, Maapni, and Carmela Suarez registered four points each with seven service aces among them.

Catherine Suazez led 2006-09 with 17 points and 10 spikes while Maapni had 16, Jhessa Lio 14, Carmela Suarez 13 points with eight service aces, and Ayla Araneta with nine points.

Jessica Plana led the 70s/80s with 14 points, including seven hits, while Mercidita Po added 10 points and Hera Mirano finishing with nine points.

Meanwhile, the SJI Varsity remained unbeaten and scored their third straight shutout victory in the tournament over the  90s and aspirants 25-22, 25-18, 25-16.

A 29 to 6 attack advantage sparked the varsitarians’ offense led by the trio of Isabelle Juson, Kim Gequillana and Kathleen Tan as they put a lot of pressure on the defense of 1990s and aspirants.

Backstopping the trio were Rosel Sy with four hits and three service aces while Camille Gequillana and Samantha Araneta scored eight and five service winners.

The 90s and aspirants was led by Pia Rio with five points while Michelle Ditching and Martha Araneta scored four points each, all on service winners.

Varsity topped the elimination round with 21 points followed by 2006-09 with 16 points, 70s and 80s garnered 15 points and 90s and aspirants had a total of 11.5 points.

It will be best-of-five sets knockout semifinals starting Saturday as the Varsity squad, armed with a twice-to-beat advantage, goes up against the 90s and aspirants, while 2006-09 will try to repeat over the 70s and 80s in the second game.

Winners will advance to a one-game final on June 6.

The tournament, organized by the SJI Alumni Association headed by William Chua, is also supported by the Philippine Sports Commission.*

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