University of the East advanced to the semifinals of the 2023 V-League Collegiate Challenge after making quick work of Lyceum of the Philippines University, 25-15, 25-15, 25-23, on Sunday at the Paco Arena in Manila.
This fifth consecutive win for the Lady Warriors marked the return of Khy Cepeda to the lineup, as Jelai Gajero had suffered a knee injury in their previous game. The wing hitter played a crucial role, contributing three kills before Caseiy Dongallo eventually sealed the victory with an off-the-block hit.
With the semifinal berth secured, UE is now looking ahead to its matches against fellow top teams Far Eastern University and College of Saint Benilde.
Head coach Jerry Yee said, "Sa amin wala namang bago. In-anticipate namin 'yung mga ganung matchups para ma-gauge kung nasaan na ba kami. Same pa rin, paghahandaan namin, at sana makakita kami ng improvements."
Kacey Balingit led the Lady Warriors with eight points in the match, including five spikes, one block, and two service aces, while Dongallo relentlessly attacked the LPU defense with 10 kills.
Janeth Tulang made a significant effort for the Lady Pirates, but her 12 points were not enough to rescue the team from falling into a 0-5 hole.
