Chikara IX nails down first Summer Slam semis spot

Titleholder Chikara of Brunei sustained its blazing comeback off an opening game setback, beating National U-A, 6-3, yesterday to clinch the first semifinal berth in women’s play of the ninth Summer Grand Slam softball tournament at the Clark Freeport Zone in Clark, Pampanga.

Former national team members Sarah Agravante and Esmeralda Tayag took charge again for the Brunei-based sluggers, combining on the mound to power the team past the Lady Bulldogs-A and notch their fourth straight victory after dropping a 5-6 loss to the Adamson Alumni in Wednesday’s opener of the week-long event sponsored by Cebuana Lhuillier.

NU-A dropped to 3-2 but remained in the hunt for the other semis slots along with Adamson University (3-1), Rizal Technological U (2-2) and Adamson Alumni, which dropped its next two games after a shock win over Chikara.

Jean Henri Lhuillier, president of the organizing Amateur Softball Association of the Philippines (AsaPhil), has expressed satisfaction over the quality of play of the competing field and expects a spirited battle for top honors in various divisions.

“This edition of the Summer Grand Slam is turning out to be the most exciting and most competitive ever. I’m sure the fans are looking forward to the semifinals and finals,” said Lhuillier.

Action is expected to heat up today at the close of the elims with the semis and the finals set in the next two days, according to AsaPhil operations manager Jun Veloso.

Earlier, Adamson U Manila trounced Sta. Maria, Bulacan, 8-1, in the women’s club category. AdU came away with eight hits as against Sta. Maria’s one to wrap up the match in five innings.

In men’s Open, Cebu shares the top ranking with the Air Force team with a victory over Antipolo, which dropped to 1-3.