Colegio de San Juan de Letran finally broke through in the V-League Collegiate Challenge 2025, securing its first victory after surviving a five-set thriller against NCAA rival University of Perpetual Help System DALTA, 25-16, 25-15, 20-25, 21-25, 15-17, on Saturday, August 23, at the Paco Arena Sports and Events Center in Manila.

Vanessa Sarie provided a spark off the bench in the deciding frame while Judiel Nitura sealed the deal, helping the Lady Knights notch their first win under new head coach Aleksi Lahteenmaki. The Finnish mentor admitted it was not a perfect outing but was pleased with the result.

Nitura powers Lady Knights to breakthrough win

The Lady Knights started strong, taking a 2-0 lead behind the tandem of Nitura and Gia Maquilang. Nitura was unstoppable, finishing with 24 points on 20 attacks and four blocks, while also tallying four digs and a reception. Maquilang added 21 points, including four service aces, as Letran established control early.

Sarie, still recovering from a shoulder injury, stepped up in the fifth set with five crucial points that shifted momentum back to Letran’s side after Perpetual had staged a late rally. Lahteenmaki credited the Lady Altas’ serving pressure but was relieved his team held on to close the match in two hours and two minutes.

Despite falling behind, the Lady Altas roared back to claim the third and fourth sets, fueled by Shai Omipon, who scored most of her 10 points during the rally. Camille Bustamante led Perpetual with 11 points, while libero Joanna Lozano anchored the defense with 24 digs and 21 excellent receptions.

Letran improved to 1-2 in the tournament and will aim to sustain its momentum against winless Mapua (0-3) on Sunday at 10 a.m. Perpetual, now 1-3, looks to bounce back against Far Eastern University (2-1) on Tuesday, August 26, at 5 p.m.