MANILA – Bacolod Tay Tung High School Thunderbolts retained its title in the Rebisco Volleyball League Girls 18-and-under Western Visayas Regional Finals at the University of St. La Salle Gym in Bacolod City.
The Thunderbolts clinched the championship on Thursday following a 25-21, 25-21, 25-13 victory over the Central Philippine University Golden Lions behind the efforts of Shane Carmona, Kiesha Bedonia and Alyssa Bertolano.
It was a seesaw battle for both teams at the onset of the first set but the Thunderbolts slowly gained ground following hits from Carmona and Bertolano before thwarting the Golden Lions attempt to bounce back.
Both squads again were into tight exchange early in the second set before the Thunderbolts created a slim separation at 20-17. Carmona and Bertolano then connived on offense to take a 2-0 set edge.
With the title within reach, the Thunderbolts started strong in the third chapter and it pulled to a 13-6 lead. With the Golden Lions in disarray, the Thunderbolts went up to 18-8 and never looked back.
Carmona was later hailed as the Most Valuable Player while Bertolano was named as best opposite spiker.
Their teammates Joan Monares, Kiesha Bedonia and Katherine Cortez were named first and second best middle blocker and best setter, respectively.
Golden Lions’ Chris Ann Susbilla and Pearl Ann Denura was awarded as first best outside hitter and best libero, respectively, while Mahriz Cosain of University of St. La Salle was second best outside hitter.
For reaching the finals, both the Thunderbolts and Golden Lions earned the right to represent Western Visayas in the Rebisco 18-and-under national finals to be held this November./PN
