UNIVERSITY of Perpetual Help System Dalta outplayed Emilio Aguinaldo College, 24-26, 25-20, 27-25, 25-19, to take a 1-0 lead in their best-of-three duel for the NCAA Season 99 men's volleyball crown at the Filoil EcoOil Center in San Juan City.

Louie Ramirez led the Altas with 23 points and 23 excellent receptions. Jeff Marapoc contributed 19 points, 19 excellent receptions and 7 digs while setter JC Enarciso finished with 27 excellent sets.

"It was difficult but the boys played well to take Game 1 in this very short series," said Perpetual Help coach Sammy Acaylar in Filipino on May 19.

"I respect the EAC Generals, they gave a good fight but we will make sure the series will end in Game 2 and keep the streak going."

The Altas swept the elimination round and claimed an outright seat in the final.

The Generals, on the other hand, placed second in the elims and had to go through the step-ladder semis to reach the finals.

Perpetual Help is also looking for its fourth consecutive championship and 14th overall while EAC is aiming for its second men's volleyball title in the league.

Game 2 of the finals is scheduled on May 26 after the ceremony for the individual awards at 10 a.m. in the same venue.