THE UNIVERSITY of Santo Tomas and the University of Southern Philippines Foundation kept their quarterfinal hopes alive with impressive victories in the 2024 Shakey’s Super League (SSL) National Invitationals at Ninoy Aquino Stadium on Thursday (11 July 2024).

UST secured a hard-fought 25-17, 25-18, 28-30, 25-14 win over debutants Team Soccsksargen in Pool B. Marga Altea led the charge with 11 attacks, five blocks, and an ace, while Abigail Sinson’s pivotal moments, including a crucial ace, helped secure the fourth set for UST.

“We still have a lot to improve on, especially our communication,” said Altea, reflecting on their performance. “As a new team, it’s been challenging to integrate players from different schools and regions, but we’re finding ways to come together.”

In another match, USPF defeated Lyceum of the Philippines University 25-19, 17-25, 25-23, 25-19 in Pool C.

Ressel Pedroza starred with 15 points for USPF, who now await the outcome of the Far Eastern University versus Lyceum match to determine their quarterfinal fate.

The tournament features a single round-robin group stage, with the top two teams from each pool advancing to the knockout quarterfinals. Semifinals will follow in a do-or-die format, leading to the best-of-three series for the gold and bronze medals. In case of ties, FIVB tiebreak rules will decide the outcome.