Arellano takes solo fourth, Adamson heads to semis unbeaten

Arellano University displayed resilience after a shaky second set to edge Colegio de San Juan, 25-14, 23-25, 25-22, 26-24, and seize solo fourth place in the 2025 V-League Collegiate Challenge on Sunday, September 7, at the Paco Arena Events and Sports Center in Manila.

Both squads entered the court carrying the fatigue of their five-set battles the day before, but the Lady Chiefs proved steadier. Led by the scoring trio of Laika Tudlasan, Sam Tiratira, and Crisanta Servidad, they notched their second straight win in the eight-team field.

Tudlasan spearheaded the charge with 19 points off 18 kills, while Tiratira chipped in 16 markers built on 12 attacks and four blocks. With the victory, Arellano climbed to 3-3, staying in the hunt for a semifinal berth.

“We’re happy to beat Letran because they’re a strong NCAA contender. I told my players that it’s in their hands — if they want to extend our season, it depends on how they respond. This win is all because of their effort,” said Lady Chiefs head coach Obet Javier.

Letran, on the other hand, closed its elimination campaign with a 3-4 record, leaving their semifinal hopes dependent on the outcomes of the remaining games. 

Judiel Nitura once again carried the Lady Knights with 22 points built on 19 attacks, two blocks, and an ace. Vanessa Sarie added 15 markers along with 12 excellent digs, but their efforts were not enough to keep their campaign alive.

Meanwhile, Adamson University capped a flawless elimination round after sweeping Ateneo de Manila University, 25-22, 25-17, 25-11, on Sunday afternoon at the same venue.

The Lady Falcons soared to a perfect 7-0 record, dropping only three sets throughout the preliminaries. They head to the semifinals full of momentum, anchored by the brilliance of Alas Pilipinas standout Shaina Nitura, rookie spiker Abby Segui, and foreign hitter Frances Mordi.

Nitura turned in another all-around performance with 24 points, nine digs, and nine receptions, while Mordi added 14 markers and solid floor defense.

“It’s really the teamwork that made the difference — how they play as one. There are still lapses during pressure situations, but I always remind them to respond properly. The tougher the challenge, the more we stick together,” said Lady Falcons head coach JP Yude.

Ateneo, reeling from a five-set loss to Letran the previous day, slipped to 1-5 and bowed out of semifinal contention. Zey Pacia stood out with 10 points and six receptions. 

The Blue Eagles aim to finish on a positive note against FEU on Wednesday, September 10.