SKETCHPAD: 6th SHAKEY'S V-LEAGUE SEMIFINALS FORECAST UNIVERSITY OF STO. TOMAS vs FAR EASTERN UNIVERSITY

The semis is on. Four teams have survived. But only two will remain. Who will be taking fame? Who will be weeping?

1- UST (5-0) vs 4- FEU (2-3)
Forecast: UST over FEU, 2-1

Dynasty against destiny. This series is a war.

The UST Tigresses have overall advantage as they have beaten FEU thrice this conference. But UST will miss the service of the "Thunderbolt M9". Michelle Carolino was off to Vietnam for beach volleyball until Sunday. There's a possibility that she can play if game 3 will be necessary. Therefore, they have to rely on Mary Jean Balse. Well, not really.

"Capt. Ice" Aiza Maizo is a lethal weapon who can scores anytime and blocks at her finest. Maika Ortiz, Judy Caballejo and Bernice Co are reliable. Of course, Dmac (that's Rhea Dimaculangan, the setter) is threatening.

With Rachel Daquis and Shaira Gonzales has yet to find their forms, the FEU Lady Tams will have to rely on Mayette Carolino's classic but daring tackles. Macailah Morada and "The Vibe" Cherry May Vivas need to come up big time to back up FEU's attack. If these five stalwarts will be in good shapes, UST will have a run for their money.

Despite being perceived as underdogs, the Lady Tams will be out to battle the way up for their first ever V-league Finals appearance with their super combos and striking spikes. And I guess, April Linor Jose was not UAAP's best setter for nothing.

UST is at its best this conference. Although they have the tendency to collapse with their floor defense, I stake my dime for them.