Ateneo takes Game 1 of Shakey’s V-League

THE ATENEO Lady Eagles moved closer towards gaining the title in the Shakey’s V-League after they came from behind to down the Adamson Lady Falcons, 23-25, 25-18, 25-20, 25-20, in game 1 of the best-of-three finals series yesterday at the Arena in San Juan City.

The Lady Eagles plugged the holes after dropping a close first set decision and went on to outhit and outfox the Lady Falcons and sweep the next three sets to zero in on their first-ever championship after blowing their first title crack to the same team in the 2008 first conference finals.

Thai ace Kesinee Lithawat drew inspiration from the MVP award she earlier received during simple rites and showcased her awesome defensive skills with a conference-high 13 blocks on the way to a 24-point performance. Fille Cainglet sustained her fine form in the last outing and fired 20 kills for a 22-point stint.

Ateneo goes for the clincher at 4 p.m. tomorrow with the Lady Eagles also trying to become the first team to win with a Thai reinforcement after Pu Kanchana powered La Salle to the 2006 title romp.

/Correspondent Jonas Panerio