MANILA — In a thrilling match at the FilOil EcoOil Centre in San Juan City on Saturday (20 April 2024), the Lyceum of the Philippines University staged a remarkable comeback against Perpetual Help, securing a hard-fought victory with a scoreline of 25-21, 24-26, 18-25, 25-22, 15-11.

This win propelled them to a share of the lead with the College of Saint Benilde Lady Blazers and the Letran Lady Knights at 4-0 in the NCAA Season 99 women’s volleyball tournament.

Janeth Tulang spearheaded the Lady Pirates’ charge with an impressive performance, delivering 18 powerful attacks and two aces.

Supported by Joan Doguna and Johna Denise Dolorito, who contributed 19 points each, as well as Hiromi Osada with eight points, including three crucial blocks, and skipper Venice Puzon, who showcased her defensive prowess with 16 excellent digs and 20 sets, the team displayed resilience and determination under the guidance of coach Cromwell Garcia.

Despite a stellar 35-point effort from reigning Most Valuable Player Mary Rhose Dapol, predominantly fueled by her 33 successful attacks, Perpetual Help couldn’t clinch the victory, leaving them with a 2-2 record.

Meanwhile, in the men’s division, Perpetual Help asserted dominance over Lyceum, sweeping them aside with a commanding 25-16, 25-17, 25-15 win, maintaining their unbeaten streak alongside Emilio Aguinaldo College at 4-0.

The NCAA action will resume on Sunday, with San Sebastian College taking on Arellano University in both the men’s and women’s matches, scheduled for 9:00 AM and 11:30 AM respectively. Later in the day, Letran and Saint Benilde will collide in the women’s division at 2:00 PM, followed by the men’s showdown at 5:00 PM.