SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico, April 24, 2026 – The Santurce Cangrejeras opened the Finals Series of the Women’s Superior Volleyball League (LVSF) with a 3-0 victory (25-23, 25-19, 25-19) over the Ponce Leonas at the Roberto Clemente Coliseum.
The capital squad entered this first matchup after sweeping the Valencianas de Juncos in four matches—the last one going to five sets—and although the scoreline reflected control, head coach Pascual Saurín acknowledged that the team has yet to show its best form.
“This is just getting started. Today we didn’t play at our best level; it’s normal to feel the tension of a final,” he said. “Ponce is playing well, although Atkinson’s absence weighs heavily. Even so, I don’t expect an easy series. This is going to be long, and we’ll have to battle every night.”
Holding a 2-0 set lead, Santurce sealed the win in the third set by breaking an 18-all tie with a scoring run: Neira Ortiz struck decisively through the middle and then blocked Nataly García, followed by an attack from Andrea Rangel from zone two down the line. In addition, an illegal back-row attack by Claire Chaussee extended the lead to 22-18, before Rangel struck again from zone two to close the set and secure the 1-0 series advantage.
The Leonas arrived in San Juan after closing their semifinal against Caguas with six consecutive set wins, but the night did not go their way.
Their main offensive weapon, Sherridan Atkinson, did not play as she remains under medical evaluation due to a physical issue. Additionally, setter Raymariely Santos could not return for the third set after suffering an incident on a defensive play at the end of the second set.
Even so, Ponce head coach Harry González praised the effort.
“Given the circumstances, we did a good job. We always play to win, but today we were out of rhythm without a key player,” he said.
He also highlighted the contribution of Stephanie “Fefa” Enright and the need for immediate adjustments for the second match.
“We’re going back to what worked against Caguas: aggressive serving and solid reception. If we pass well, we can play faster and have more options. With speed, we can beat their block,” he added.
The Cangrejeras displayed a balanced offense led by Andrea Rangel (17), Helena Grozer (12), and Kara McGhee (11). For Ponce, Nataly García (13), Claire Chaussee (12), and Abigail Akey Hansen (11) responded.
Santurce led in attacks (44-35), blocks (8-5), aces (4-3), and digs (64-63). Ponce had the edge in receptions (37-30) and assists (12-11).
The series—scheduled as a best-of-seven—continues this Saturday at the Juan “Pachín” Vicéns Auditorium in Ponce starting at 8:00 p.m.
The first team to reach four victories will lift the 2026 LVSF championship trophy.
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