Arellano, Perpetual favored

Games Today (The Arena, San Juan City) 10 a.m. – Letran vs EAC (Juniors) 1 p.m. – Arellano vs Perpetual (Men’s) 3:30 p.m. – Awarding Ceremonies 4 p.m. – Arellano vs San Beda (Women’s)

Defending women’s champion Arellano University hopes to draw first blood while University of Perpetual Help tries to inch closer to a season sweep in the men’s side as the NCAA volleyball finals kick off today at The Arena in San Juan.

The Lady Chiefs look to frustrate firsttime finalist San Beda Lady Red Spikers in opener of their best-of-three series for the women’s crown at 4 p.m. after the Altas enter the 1 p.m. confrontation with the Arellano Chiefs riding high on a nine-game sweep of the eliminations.

Jovielyn Prado and Rookie of the Year Necole Ebuen lead Arellano’s quest to close in on a second straight title and third in the last four seasons against San Beda.

Focus, however, will be the Perpetual men’s squad as it looks to preserve its hot form despite spending a week waiting for its opponent in the title showdown.

Altas coach Sammy Acaylar said his team played tune-up match against UAAP counterparts to stay sharp going into the series.

Joebert Almodiel, adjudged RookieMVP of the season, banner the Altas especially at the attack line, while Best Libero Jack Kalingking and Best Setter Warren Catipay offer reinforcements on both departments.

The Chiefs, which have to thread through the eye of the needle to make it to the finals, are unfazed.

They hope to ride on the crest of their morale-boosting 25-22, 28-26, 25-23 triumph in the stepladder semis that dethroned the College of St. Benilde Blazers.

Outside hitter Christian Dela Paz is set to challenge Almodiel while Kevin Liberato provide cover at the net.

— KRISTEL SATUMBAGA