MANILA — University of Santo Tomas (UST) surged closer to a Final Four berth after a commanding straight-sets victory over University of the East (UE), 25-21, 26-24, 25-20, tightening its hold on third place in the UAAP Season 88 Women’s Volleyball tournament on Sunday at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion.
With the win, the Golden Tigresses improved to a 7-4 record, solidifying their position in the semifinal race while extending the Lady Warriors’ struggles, who remained winless in 11 outings.
Angeline Poyos spearheaded UST’s charge with 17 points, while Regina Jurado chipped in 11 markers as the España-based squad dictated the tempo for most of the match.
UST appeared in full control but faced a late scare in the second set as UE mounted a strong push, forcing an extended frame before the Tigresses regained composure to secure the set and momentum.
The Golden Tigresses then wrapped up the contest in the third set with a steady closing stretch, maintaining their rhythm heading into the crucial final phase of the eliminations.
Khy Cepada paced the Lady Warriors with 17 points, while Bea Zamudio added 12 markers as UE continued its search for its first win of the season.
In the men’s division, the UST Golden Spikers knocked UE out of Final Four contention with a 22-25, 25-15, 25-19, 25-23 triumph.
After dropping the opening set, UST regrouped behind two-time MVP Josh Ybañez, who delivered 25 points built on 21-of-39 attacks, two blocks, and two aces, along with six excellent receptions and five excellent digs.
Joncriz Ayco added 12 points on 11 attacks, while middle blocker Trevor Valera contributed 11 markers. Setter Joshua Avila orchestrated the offense with 19 excellent sets and added three points on two attacks and one block.
The loss dropped the Red Warriors to a 2-9 record, ending their Final Four hopes with three games left in the elimination round. Raquim Aceron led UE with 17 points, while Roy Piojo finished with 13./PN
