Ponce Eliminates Manatí and Advances to the LVSF Semifinals

PONCE, Puerto Rico, March 30, 2026 – Quarterfinal action in the Women’s Superior Volleyball League (LVSF) on Monday night saw the Leonas de Ponce become the second team to secure a direct spot in the semifinals after defeating the Atenienses de Manatí 3-1 (16-25, 25-19, 25-19, 25-22) at Salvador Dijols court, eliminating them from the postseason.

Ponce’s victory also turned the Criollas de Caguas into the third team to qualify for the semifinals. Manatí’s loss leaves them with a 1-3 record, while Ponce and Caguas share a 2-1 mark. The match between both teams this Wednesday will have no impact on the standings.

The match was decided after the second technical timeout of the fourth set, when the Leonas, holding a 2-1 advantage, pulled away thanks to Abby Akey’s offense through the middle and an attack error from zone four by Shaylee Myers, whose spike went into the net. Ponce extended the lead to 23-20, reached set point, and sealed the victory with two consecutive attacks by Sherridan Atkinson: the first from zone four off the block, and the second from zone two, beating the block and sending the ball down in zone six.

Leonas led in attacks (59-52), blocks (10-7), digs (80-79), and assists (20-11). The Atenienses stood out in receptions (44-34).

Ponce’s offense was led by Sherridan Atkinson with 24 points, followed by Kristin Lux with 15 and Abby Akey with 14. For Manatí, Karla Santos led with 20 points, while Emily Elliot and Shaylee Myers each added 15.

Action continues Tuesday, March 31, at Rafael G. Amalbert Coliseum, where the Valencianas de Juncos (1-1) will host the Cangrejeras de Santurce (3-0) starting at 8:30 p.m.