MANILA — The University of Santo Tomas Golden Tigresses roared back into contention, overpowering the Far Eastern University Lady Tamaraws, 25-17, 25-17, 18-25, 25-16, to tighten the race for a Final Four spot in the UAAP Season 88 women’s volleyball tournament Sunday night at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion.
Coming off a setback against the league-leading De La Salle University Lady Spikers, UST wasted no time asserting control, dictating the tempo early with sharp attacks and a disciplined defensive stand to seize the first two sets and put FEU on the back foot.
The Lady Tamaraws showed grit in the third frame, capitalizing on UST’s miscues and tightening their net defense to extend the match. But the Tigresses quickly restored order in the fourth, unloading a decisive finishing kick behind timely hits and crucial stops to secure the victory on their home floor.
Angeline Poyos spearheaded UST with 18 points, while Regina Jurado added 16 markers. Jonna Perdido and rookie Avril Bron chipped in 10 points apiece in the balanced offensive effort.
On the other side, Faida Bakanke led FEU with 13 points, with Lovely Lopez contributing 11 in the loss.
The victory lifted UST to a 6-4 record, forging a three-way tie for third place with FEU and the Adamson University Lady Falcons, intensifying the race for semifinal berths.
Meanwhile, De La Salle tightened its grip on the top spot after sweeping the University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons, 25-15, 25-18, 25-20, to become the first team to clinch a Final Four berth.
Negrense standout Angel Canino delivered 15 points, supporting team captain Shevana Laput, who scored 16. Amie Provido added 10 markers, highlighted by four attacks, four blocks, and two service aces, as La Salle stretched its unbeaten run to 10 matches and extended its streak of postseason appearances to 16 straight seasons dating back to Season 71./PN
