SPIKER. National University's Mhicaela Belen (right) tries to score against Letran's Marie Judiel Nitura (No. 1) in the semifinal round of the Shakey’s Super League National Invitationals at Ninoy Aquino Stadium in Manila on Sunday (July 14, 2024). The Lady Bulldogs won, 25-19, 25-18, 25-21, to advance to Monday’s final. (SSL photo)
MANILA – National University advanced to the championship round after beating Colegio de San Juan de Letran, 25-19, 25-18, 25-21, in the semifinal of the 2024 Shakey’s Super League (SSL) National Invitationals at Ninoy Aquino Stadium in Manila on Sunday.
NU will face the winner between reigning NCAA champion College of Saint Benilde and Far Eastern University, which are still playing as of posting time.
Game 1 of the best-of-three title clash is set at 4 p.m. Monday
Veteran wing spiker Mhicaela Belen produced 18 points on 14 kills, three aces and a block, while Arah Ella Panique added nine points as the reigning UAAP champion Lady Bulldogs rolled to their fourth straight win.
The two were able to play after the Japan training camp of the Alas Pilipinas national team was moved to a later date.
Erin Pangilinan chipped in eight points while Vange Alinsug and Aishat Bello scored six apiece.
“We're happy to win and play in the championship. Everybody played their role but there's still a need for connections especially the new players,” NU coach Norman Miguel said.
Letran, the NCAA Season 99 runner-up, rallied in the third set to move within 20-23.
But NU played steadier and with Myrtle Escanlar's attack, wrapped up the match after one hour and 28 minutes.
Gia Marcel Maquilang paced Letran with 12 points, while Nizelle Aeriyen Martin added 10 points, including five in the third set.
The battle for the bronze medal is also a best-of-three affair. (PNA)
