MANILA — Marga Altea took charge when it mattered most, powering University of Santo Tomas to a 24-26, 25-17, 25-23, 20-25, 15-5 escape over University of the East in the 2026 V-League Collegiate Challenge on Saturday at Gameville Central Park in Mandaluyong City.
The incoming junior erupted for six points in the deciding fifth set — single-handedly outscoring the entire UE squad — as the Golden Tigresses bounced back into the win column and improved their record to 2-1.
UST seized control of the decider with an 8-2 advantage before Altea helped turn the fifth set into a rout. Her service ace stretched the Golden Tigresses’ lead to 13-4 before Ash Knop eventually delivered the match-clinching point.
Altea finished just one dig shy of a triple-double after pouring in 21 points on 16 attacks, two blocks and three service aces. She also registered 12 excellent receptions and nine digs in the two-hour, nine-minute marathon.
UST head coach Shaq Delos Santos praised his young squad for responding strongly after UE forced a fifth set, especially with veterans Reg Jurado and Angge Poyos unavailable.
“Good thing yung naka-recover sila. Sabi ko nga sa kanila, kung ano yung mga nangyari nung first four sets, kalimutan na yan. Good thing naging ganito yung response nila,” Delos Santos said.
The Golden Tigresses, however, paid a price for the victory after Balingit suffered a right ankle injury in the fourth set. She still finished with 19 points before leaving the match.
Team captain Cassie Carballo orchestrated UST’s offense with 30 excellent sets.
UE fell to 1-2 despite Van Bangayan’s 18 points and Janessa Buhay’s 15.
Meanwhile, Arellano University moved closer to securing a semifinal berth after sweeping University of Perpetual Help, 25-19, 25-16, 25-18.
The Lady Chiefs remained unbeaten in four matches after needing only 70 minutes to dispose of the Lady Altas and strengthen their position in the playoff race.
Kacelyn Punzalan led Arellano with 14 points built on six attacks, five blocks and three aces, while Cris Servidad added 11 points./PN
