The De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde (DLS-CSB) Lawn Tennis Teams rolled past their opponents as they secured the top spot at the end of the first round of the NCAA Lawn Tennis Tournament on Mar. 18 at the Philippine Columbian Association Sports Club in Paco, Manila.

The Benilde Blazing Netters continued a flawless run in the first round with a domination over the University of Perpetual Help System-DALTA (UPHSD) Perpetual Altas. Carlo Ubalde led the first singles match, displaying his mastery of the lawn with a clean sweep for the Taft Squad, 2-0. Gian Macaraeg and Francis Lera continued this momentum in the doubles match with a merciless 2-0 sweep. Reynielle Marcellana left no room for doubt, as he dominated his opponent with a sweep, 2-0. The Benilde Blazing Netters subdued the Perpetual Altas with a 3-0 sweep.

Later that day, the Benilde Lady Netters clinched the top spot of the first round against the defending champions, the San Beda University (SBU) Lady Red Netters. Valerie Desoyo was in unfamiliar territory as she figured in a tough battle, absorbing the first loss of the Taft squad, 0-2. Kiana De Asis and Dorelle Laguda made sure to regain momentum as they pulled off a nail-biter match to contest their opponent’s advantage in the series, 2-1. Despite going down with a minor injury midway through her match, Gabrielle Zoleta pulled through and sealed the deal with a dominant 2-0 clean sweep. Despite a rough start, the women in green and white prevailed over the Lady Red Netters, 2-1.

The Benilde Blazing Netters and Benilde Lady Netters are ready for the second round of the tournament as they return to defend their spot against the University of Perpetual Help System Dalta (UPHSD) Lawn Tennis Team today, Mar. 19.

Catch both teams at the same venue for the NCAA Season99 Lawn Tennis Tournament until Mar. 23.