Army spikers eye lead

THE lady spikers of the Philippine Army and San Sebastian gun for a share of the lead with Ateneo as they take on Air Force and Navy, respectively, in today’s Shakey’s V-League Open Conference matches at The Arena in San Juan.

The Army spikers, who held off Navy in four sets last Tuesday, mix it up with the Air Force ladies at 2 p.m. while the Lady Stags, who subdued the PAF tossers in Sunday’s opener, tangle with the Navy side at 4 p.m.

Pre-tournament favorite Maynilad, who dropped a tough three-setter to Ateneo, tries to get its title bid going as it squares off with Perpetual Help at 6 p.m. in an explosive triple-bill marking the third playdate of the event.

The Army-Air Force duel is expected to go down-the-wire with Army coach Rico de Guzman expressing guarded optimism as they try to build momentum in the single round robin series among seven teams chasing the first “Open“ championship.

“We’re familiar with each other’s game so this won’t be an easy match for us,” said De Guzman, who drew a 23-hit, two-block performance from former MVP Michelle Carolino in their come-from-behind 23-25, 25-21, 25-22, 25-23 victory over Navy.

Air Force, meanwhile, will pin its hopes on former UST star Aiza Maizo and former fellow MVP Cherry Rose Macatangay along with Jen Manzano, Liza Deramos, Ma, Teresa dela Rosa and Wendy Semana.  /Correspondent Jonas Panerio