The UST Golden Tigresses secured their first victory of the season, sweeping the Ateneo Blue Eagles, 26-24, 25-18, 25-21, in the UAAP Season 88 women’s volleyball tournament at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
Locked at 24-all in the opening set, Xyza Gula delivered a crucial spike to push UST to set point before Faye Nisperos committed an attack error that handed the Golden Tigresses the tight 26-24 frame. From there, UST carried its momentum into the next two sets and kept Ateneo at bay to complete the straight-sets win.
“Una sa lahat, thank you kay Lord. Nanalo na kami, and I think magiging inspiration sa amin itong first win namin dahil galing sa dalawang talo. I’m sure mas babawi pa kami sa mga susunod na games,” said Golden Tigresses head coach Shaq Delos Santos, who returned to steer the team after guiding them to their last championship in Season 73.
UST Gets Balanced Scoring
Angge Poyos led UST with 21 points built on 19 attacks, 1 block, and 1 service ace. Reg Jurado rediscovered her rhythm with 12 points on 11 attacks and 1 block, along with 12 excellent digs.
For Ateneo, Donna De Leon was the lone player in double figures with 10 points from 7 attacks, 2 blocks, and 1 ace. Zey Pacia and Ana Hermosura chipped in 8 points apiece.
The Golden Tigresses enjoy homecourt advantage when they host the UE Lady Red Warriors on Saturday, February 28, at 11:00 a.m. at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion. Meanwhile, the Blue Eagles gear up for a rivalry clash against the La Salle Lady Spikers on Sunday, March 1, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
