By Jean Malanum

INVITATIONALS. National University’s Sheena Toring (No. 8) scores against University of Southern Philippines Foundation’s Dya Hanica Mejos during the quarterfinals of the Shakey’s Super League National Invitationals at Ninoy Aquino Stadium in Manila on Saturday (July 13, 2024). NU won, 25-11, 25-12, 25-14, to make the Final Four against Letran. (Contributed photo)

MANILA – National University outclassed University of Southern Philippines Foundation, 25-11, 25-12, 25-14, on Saturday to book a semifinal berth in the Shakey’s Super League (SSL) National Invitationals at Ninoy Aquino Stadium in Manila.

Opposite Nataszha Bombita and wing spiker Myrtle Escanlar turned in nine points each while middle blocker Sheena Toring finished with seven attacks and three blocks as the Lady Bulldogs claimed their third straight win.

Wing spiker Mhicaela Belen scored six points, including four aces, while Arah Ella Panique also came up with six points in their last game before joining Alas Pilipinas in a training camp in Japan.

“We still need to work on our passing and blocking. And also in our connections, especially the chemistry between the rookies and the seniors,” coach Norman Miguel said after the match that lasted for one hour and 18 minutes.

Middle blocker Dya Hanica Mejos led the Cebu-based USPF with seven points on six attacks and one block.

Wing spiker Checelle Kaye Buñao had five attacks while opposite Ressel Pedroza added four points.

NU, champion in the SSL Collegiate Preseason Championship and the UAAP, will be up against Letran, which advanced after a 25-22, 25-10, 25-23 win over University of Batangas in the other quarterfinal match.

Wing spiker Gia Marcel Maquilang delivered 12 attacks, three aces and one block for the Lady Knights.

Nizelle Aeriyen Martin had 10 attacks, while Lea Rizel Tapang added nine points on seven attacks and two blocks.

Wing spiker Kylie Macatangay paced the Lady Brahmans with nine attacks and two aces. 

The University of Santo Tomas-Far Eastern University and College of Saint Benilde-Enderun Colleges duels will decide the other two semifinalists. (PNA)