The UST Golden Tigresses protected their home floor and completed a season sweep of the FEU Lady Tamaraws, 25-17, 25-17, 18-25, 25-17, in the UAAP Season 88 Women’s Volleyball Tournament at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion.
The win tightened the race for the remaining Final Four spots, as UST joined FEU and Adamson in a three-way tie for third and fourth place, with identical 6-4 records.
UST looked in control early but momentarily lost its grip in the third set. Leading 12-9, the Golden Tigresses faltered as FEU capitalized behind Faida Bakanke and Alyzza Devosora to steal the frame.
The Golden Tigresses, however, responded decisively in the fourth set, building a commanding 20-12 lead before cruising to the win.
“Sa komplikasyon ng standings, malaking bagay para sa amin itong panalong ito. Para itong band-aid solution sa ngayon,” said UST assistant coach Yani Fernandez.
“Lagi lang naming sinasabi sa players na move forward lang kasi wala nang magagawa sa past results.”
Balance Is Key for UST
The España-based squad leaned on a balanced offensive effort, with Angge Poyos leading the way with 18 points, along with 7 excellent digs, and 5 excellent receptions. Reg Jurado added 16 points, while Jonna Perdido and Avril Bron chipped in 10 points each.
Setter Cassie Carballo orchestrated the offense with 20 excellent sets and added 3 points, while libero Detdet Pepito anchored the defense with 21 excellent digs and 6 excellent receptions.
For FEU, Bakanke led with 13 points built on 9 attacks and 4 blocks, while Lovely Lopez contributed 11 points.
The Golden Tigresses will next face the UE Lady Red Warriors on Easter Sunday, April 5, at 11:00 a.m. at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion. Meanwhile, FEU looks to bounce back against the La Salle Lady Spikers on Wednesday, April 8, at 3:00 p.m. at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.
