College of Saint Benilde kicked off its 2023 V-League Collegiate Challenge campaign by dominating Lyceum of the Philippines University in straight sets, 25-19, 25-20, 25-13, on Friday at the Paco Arena in Manila.
In a rematch of the NCAA Season 98 Finals, the Lady Blazers had to hold off the Lady Pirates in the first two sets, and Mich Gamit secured victory for CSB with two quick kills during the concluding 5-1 run.
"We found some bright spots and found some problems na kailangan pang i-work on. Overall, masaya naman that we got the win and nag-perform naman yung karamihan," head coach Jerry Yee said of the win in this tournament organized by Sports Vision and backed by Bola.TV, Beyond Active Wear, ASICS and Mikasa.
Middle blocker Zam Nolasco was unstoppable at the net, contributing 12 points through nine spikes and three blocks, including three consecutive points during the second-set pull-away.
Clydel Catarig and Corrine Apostol also ignited the Lady Blazers with eight points each, adding to their momentum.
Joan Doguna played a pivotal role for the Lady Pirates, scoring nearly in double digits with nine points. Janeth Tulang also made a significant contribution, accumulating eight points, with five points from successful attacks.
