V-League semifinals kick off today

THE REIGNING champions Ateneo Lady Eagles and the six-time titlists University of Sto. Tomas Lady Tigresses try to arrange a much-anticipated finals showdown as they take on separate rivals in the semifinal round of the 9th Shakey’s V-League at the Arena in San Juan City.

The Lady Eagles and the Tigresses emerged victorious last Sunday in contrasting fashions to move closer to the finals with the two fancied teams tipped to further raise the level of their games to seal their keenly awaited showdown for the crown.

Ateneo outlasted Perpetual Help in a gripping first set duel then held on to complete a 31-29, 25-20, 25-19 victory that kept the defending champions’ unbeaten run going.

But the Lady Eagles brace for a big Perpetual comeback in their 2 p.m. encounter although they remain upbeat of their chances with Alyssa Valdez and Thai Phee Nok Kesinee playing true to form and Fille Cainglet and Dzi Gervacio expected to rebound from their six-hit performance the last time out. /Correspondent Jonas Panerio