MANILA — University of Santo Tomas bounced back from a slow start and stormed past University of the Philippines, 16-25, 25-13, 25-19, 25-20, to return to the winning track in the UAAP Season 88 Women’s Volleyball Tournament on Wednesday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.
Angeline Poyos spearheaded the Golden Tigresses with 24 points built on 20 attacks, three blocks, and a service ace, while also delivering seven excellent digs and six excellent receptions as UST improved to a 3-3 record in the standings.
Regina Jurado chipped in 16 points and Jonna Perdido added 12 markers, while playmaker Cassie Carballo tallied 18 excellent sets along with a point. Bernadett Pepito anchored the floor defense with 15 excellent receptions and nine digs for the Tigresses.
UST struggled early and dropped the opening set, but quickly regrouped in the second frame where the Tigresses dominated to even the match before sustaining their momentum through the third and fourth sets to complete the four-set comeback win.
Niña Ytang paced the Fighting Maroons with 14 points, while Jelai Gajero contributed 11 markers as UP slipped to a 3-3 slate.
In the other match, De La Salle University outlasted Adamson University in five sets, 19-25, 25-20, 25-21, 13-25, 15-5, to remain unbeaten in the tournament.
The Lady Spikers unleashed a decisive eight-point finishing run in the deciding set to seal the victory and improve to a perfect 6-0 record, keeping themselves on track for a possible first-round sweep.
Shevana Laput led La Salle with 26 points, while Angel Canino and Shane Reterta added 19 and 10 markers, respectively, as the Lady Spikers recovered after Adamson forced a fifth set by dominating the fourth frame.
With the win, La Salle moved within one victory of sweeping the first round and will attempt to complete the feat when it faces defending champion National University in a Season 87 Finals rematch on Sunday.
Adamson, meanwhile, dropped to a 3-3 record after the loss. Frances Mordi led the Lady Falcons with 22 points./PN
