MANILA — University of Santo Tomas maintained their drive for a semifinal berth after defeating Far Eastern University 25-17, 25-17, 18-25, 25-17 on Sunday at the UAAP Season 88 women’s volleyball tournament held in the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion.
The Golden Tigresses now hold a 6-4 record, sharing third place with FEU and Adamson University.
“This win is a big boost for our campaign. We always remind our players to focus on the present and keep progressing,” said UST assistant coach Yani Fernandez.
UST had also beaten FEU in the first round, 25-17, 25-18, 25-20. Angeline Poyos was instrumental in the victory with 18 points, seven digs, and five receptions. Other key contributors included Regina Jurado (16 points, six digs), Jonna Perdido (10 points), and Avril Bron (10 points). Detdet Pepito led the defense with 21 digs and six receptions.
Next up, UST faces the University of the East Lady Warriors on Easter Sunday at home, aiming for back-to-back wins.
FEU’s top scorers were Faida Bakanke with 13 points, Lovely Lopez with 11, and Alyzza Devosora with seven. The Lady Tamaraws are set to challenge unbeaten De La Salle University on April 8 at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.
La Salle has already secured a semifinals slot after their 25-15, 25-18, 25-20 win over the University of the Philippines. Shevana Laput scored 16 points, while Angel Canino contributed 15. “Preparation and respect for each opponent is our focus,” said La Salle coach Ramil de Jesus.
For UP, Jelai Gajero and Niña Ytang tallied nine points each in the loss. The Fighting Maroons will face Ateneo de Manila University on April 8 in Pasay.
amigo/xf
