CSB and UP Vie for Semifinal Spots in Shakey’s Super League Unity Cup

MANILA – The race to secure the remaining semifinal positions in the Shakey’s Super League (SSL) Unity Cup intensifies this Friday at the Paco Arena, as College of Saint Benilde (CSB) and University of the Philippines (UP) aim to advance further in the tournament.

CSB’s Lady Blazers, led by Rhea Densing who scored 24 points, edged out Adamson University’s Lady Falcons in a thrilling five-set match (28-26, 20-25, 25-15, 19-25, 15-12) last Tuesday, thereby forcing a decisive rubber game scheduled at 3 p.m. Densing was supported by key players Zam Nolasco, Camila Bartolome, and sisters Shekaina and Shahanna Lleses, continuing the strong legacy of the four-time NCAA champions.

Adamson, winners of the SSL National Invitational Cebu leg, will rely on the efforts of Joy Aseo, Frances Mordi, and Abegail Segui. However, their campaign faces uncertainty as standout player Shane Nitura remains questionable due to injury.

The victor in the upcoming clash between CSB and Adamson will secure a semifinal showdown with University of Santo Tomas, who hold a twice-to-beat advantage. That match is slated for Sunday at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.

Meanwhile, UP battles to cement its place in the semifinals after a four-set win against Far Eastern University (25-27, 25-21, 25-18, 25-20). The Fighting Maroons count on the consistent performances of Casiey Dongallo, Jelai Gajero, Nina Ytang, and Bienne Bansil to overcome the Lady Tamaraws, champions of the National Invitational Batangas leg, led by Faida Bakanke, Gerzel Petallo, and Alyzza Devosora.

Dongallo expressed confidence ahead of the next contest, stating, "Because there is still Game 2, I think we will do better. We will study FEU to see what we lacked in the game and what else we need to improve because we know that FEU will try to bounce back."

Should UP prevail, they will face top-seeded National University, victors of the National Invitational Davao leg, in the Final Four.

The competition promises exciting encounters as teams strive to secure their spots in the championship round.