MANILA – The University of Santo Tomas Golden Tigresses overcame a third set struggle to defeat the University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons, 25-11, 25-23, 23-25, 25-12, in the UAAP Season 87 women’s volleyball on Wednesday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.
Regina Jurado spearheaded the attack with 22 points, on 21 attacks and one block, to go with eight excellent digs and three excellent receptions as the Golden Tigresses surged to a 4-1 win-loss slate.
Angeline Poyos added 20 markers, built on 18 attacks and two service aces, to go with six excellent digs and four excellent receptions, while rookie Margaret Altea chipped in nine markers for UST.
After falling short of their comeback bid in the third set, the Golden Tigresses were scorching to start the fourth set, establishing an 11-3 start behind connections from Altea, Jurado, and Poyos.
The Golden Tigresses continued their aggression with attacks from Altea and Poyos and blocks from Bianca Plaza for a 19-6 advantage en route to their fourth consecutive win.
“After ng third set, sinabihan ko ‘yung teammates ko na maging calm lang, kasi kapag sinasabayan namin sila (Fighting Maroons) dun kami nag-struggle eh,” said Jurado after the game.
“Sumunod lang kami sa sistema and nakinig sa coaches and na-apply naman namin ‘yun, and para sa next games ganun din ang gagawin namin para manalo kami,” she added.
Rookie Kianne Olango top-scored with 18 points, on 14 attacks, two blocks, and two service aces, while Negrense Joan Marie Monares added 13 points as the Fighting Maroons dropped to a 2-3 mark.
Meanwhile, Far Eastern University Lady Tamaraws (3-2) made a quick work of University of the East Lady Warriors (0-5), 25-23, 25-19, 25-20 to secure their second consecutive victory.
Gerzel Petallo spearheaded the offense with 12 points, including 11 attacks, to go with eight excellent digs and six excellent receptions, while Chenie Tagaod and Mitzi Panangin added 11 apiece for FEU./PN
