[UPDATE: An earlier version of this article previously reported that Letran had clinched a spot in the Final Four based on information from the NCAA’s official press release. The story has been updated to clarify that Letran is in the running for the Final Four, but not officially in yet.]
Gia Maquilang once again starred for Colegio de San Juan de Letran as it outlasted San Beda University, 29-27, 20-25, 23-25, 25-23, 15-13, to move closer to a Final Four ticket on Saturday in the NCAA Season 99 women's volleyball tournament at the Filoil EcoOil Centre in San Juan.
Rookie Maquilang had 24 points off 20 attacks, three aces, and a block as the Lady Knights improved to 6-2 and boosted their hopes to make it to the semifinals for the first time since 2012.
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San Beda started the fourth set with two straight points before Letran made a 13-0 run. The Intramuros-based squad then led 21-9 before the Mendiola crew made its own 10-0 run and inched closer, 21-19. Letran had the advantage, 24-23, before an attack error by San Beda forced the game into Set 5.
In the deciding frame, the Lady Knights led 14-10 before San Beda saved three match points and inched closer to within one. However, a service error by San Beda's Erin Navarro sealed the deal for the Lady Knights.
Aside from Maquilang, rookie Judiel Nitura had 15 points while Lea Tapang showed courage with 11 points.
The win spoiled Angel Habacon's 29-point outing as San Beda slipped to 3-5 and out of playoff contention.
Letran will still face San Sebastian College-Recoletos on Wednesday, while San Beda will go against Mapua University on Tuesday.
READ MORE | NCAA Season 99 women's volleyball Final Four picture
—JKC, GMA Integrated News
