The Arellano University Lady Chiefs, once the undisputed queens of NCAA women’s volleyball, inched closer to reclaiming their place among the league’s elite, dispatching Emilio Aguinaldo College in straight sets, 25-19, 25-15, 25-23, on Wednesday at the Filoil EcoOil Centre in San Juan.
Currently rebuilding their legacy after years of fading from the spotlight, the three-time NCAA champions delivered a composed performance against the Lady Generals, riding on the explosive showing of Laika Tudlasan. The third-year outside hitter powered Arellano with 13 points, including 10 searing spikes and three service aces, as the Lady Chiefs improved to 11-6 — good enough to keep their Final Four destiny in their hands.
The win not only bolstered Arellano’s semifinal bid but also officially shut the door on Lyceum of the Philippines University (7-8), who were hanging on the edge of playoff contention.
Despite the convincing victory, head coach Obet Javier wore a look of unease as he dissected the third set — a frame that saw Arellano’s poise waver, nearly allowing EAC to mount a comeback.
“We got the win, yes, but it’s the kind of win that leaves you worried,” Javier said in Filipino after the match. “They got too relaxed. That’s dangerous heading into our next game against Lyceum. We need sharper movement and more focus.”
Arellano looked well in control early, surging ahead 17-12 in the third set after capitalizing on EAC’s miscues. Tudlasan and Moming Padillon provided consistent offensive firepower, keeping the Lady Generals at bay.
But EAC, already out of the playoff race at 4-12, found a late spark behind the veteran grit of Jennifer Omapas, who strung together three consecutive aces to spearhead a 6-1 run that pulled her team within one, 18-19.
The momentum briefly shifted as Alex Razonable struck with back-to-back hits, tying the set at 22-all after an unforced error by Arellano’s Fhaye Mangubat.
Yet the Lady Chiefs refused to fold. A service miscue by EAC’s Ashley Magnayi and a timely left-wing blast by Padillon gave Arellano a two-point cushion, before Sam Tiratira sealed the match with a thunderous quick hit that ended a tense rally.
The Lady Chiefs now brace for a high-stakes clash against Lyceum, with their Final Four ticket nearly within reach. But if they intend to make waves in the playoffs — and perhaps relive the glory of their championship past — consistency, not just talent, will have to be their defining trait.
“Our next game is crucial,” Javier added. “If we want to be a true Final Four team, we need to act like one — from the first serve to the last point.”
