MANILA – University of Santo Tomas Golden Tigresses kept its finals hopes alive in the 2019 PVL Collegiate Conference after a 24-26, 25-18, 25-17, 25-17 win over Ateneo Lady Eagles in the semifinals at the San Juan Arena.
Janna Torres top-scored with 14 points, on 10 attacks and three blocks, while fellow rookie Imee Hernandez added 11 markers.
The Golden Tigresses tied the best-of-three semifinals series at 1-1.
Ejiya Laure finished with double-double 10 points, 14 excellent digs and four excellent receptions while elder sister Ennajie Laure was slowly regaining her form as she finished with eight points.
“Last time kami ‘yung wala sa laro eh. Physically present kami pero distracted,” said UST head coach Kungfu Reyes. “This time, at least nahimasmasan sila. Mas relax[ed] so na-identify na nila ‘yung strength namin.”
For the Lady Eagles, Vanie Gandler finished with double-double 15 points and 16 excellent receptions, Faith Nisperos added 12 markers, while Erika Raagas and Jules Samonte had 11 each.
Meanwhile, Trisha Genesis came up with clutch conversions as the Adamson University Falcons also stayed alive in the semifinals with a 25-12, 21-25, 25-22, 19-25, 15-11 victory over the College of St. Benilde Lady Blazers.
Genesis erupted for 24 points built on 21 attacks and three service aces alongside 15 excellent receptions.
The second year player did most of the damage for the Lady Falcons in the fifth set to stay alive./PN
