When it comes to Philippine collegiate sports, intensity is guaranteed—especially in UAAP volleyball. Over the weekend, the University of Santo Tomas (UST) Golden Tigresses and Golden Spikers gave us a double treat by crushing their opponents and making strong bids for the semis. Whether you’re a UST fan or just love the game, this one’s worth a closer look. Grab your favorite snack and let’s break it all down.
Golden Tigresses Roar Into Final Four Contention
The UST Golden Tigresses aren’t just playing to win—they’re playing to dominate. On Saturday, they proved exactly that by sweeping the University of the East (UE) Lady Warriors in straight sets: 25-19, 25-16, 25-15.
A Stat Sheet Full of Fire
Angge Poyos led the offensive charge with 12 powerful attack points, complemented by five digs and three solid receptions. Not far behind was Reg Jurado, who chipped in 10 points of her own.
While UST tallied a surprising 25 errors—more than UE—they made up for it with raw firepower: 46 attacks vs. UE’s 19. They also had the edge in blocks (6-4) and service aces (4-2), showing their multi-faceted game.
Momentum Keeps Building
This win wasn’t just another check in the W column. It marked UST’s third consecutive victory, pushing their record to 8-4—tying them for third place alongside the Far Eastern University (FEU) Lady Tamaraws. And they’re now securely ahead of the fifth-seeded UP Fighting Maroons, sitting at 5-6.
The Bench Steps Up
In the third set, UST unleashed its depth. Em Banagua, Kyla Cordora, Van Bangayan, and Riza Nogales each contributed, proving it’s not just a one-woman show.
Coach Kung Fu Reyes was more than happy with what he saw:
“First, syempre yung respeto sa team ng UE nandoon naman kaya pinaghandaan talaga namin. Ang maganda rito, nabigyan namin ng exposure yung ibang players namin at nakapagdeliver naman.”
Translation? They came prepared, showed respect, and gave bench players a chance to shine—and shine they did.
Golden Spikers Steamroll Through UE
Not to be outdone, the UST Golden Spikers delivered their own masterclass by sweeping the UE Red Warriors: 25-20, 25-17, 25-20.
Josh Ybanez Brings the Heat
Ybanez was on another level, posting 15 points along with nine receptions and six digs. Talk about a well-rounded effort! Popoy Colinares and Jay Rack de la Noche also made waves with 12 and 10 points respectively.
Their victory moved them to 8-4 in the standings—still very much in the playoff picture.
UE Searches for Answers
It just hasn’t been UE’s season. The Red Warriors dropped to 0-13, continuing a winless run they’ll be eager to end.
Roy Piojo led UE’s effort with nine points, while Isiah Roca pitched in six—commendable, but not enough to dent UST’s momentum.
FEU Tamaraws Widen Their Lead in Men’s Division
Meanwhile, FEU’s men’s team is channeling championship energy. They brushed off the Adamson Soaring Falcons with ease: 25-16, 25-16, 25-22.
Dryx Saavedra and Amet Bituin both racked up 13 points, while Mikko Espartero added nine. FEU’s win pushed them to a sterling 12-1 record, placing them on the cusp of locking in the top seed.
The Road Ahead: It’s Getting Tense
With the Final Four looming, every set won—or lost—carries weight. Both UST squads are positioning themselves for deep runs. The players are peaking at the right time, coaches are shuffling their rotations smartly, and fans are getting more hyped with every match.
If you’re not watching UAAP volleyball this season, you’re missing out.
Final Whistle
From smashing performances to clutch team depth, UST is writing a thrilling narrative as UAAP Season 87 enters its final leg. Whether it’s the women’s or men’s team, the España-based squads are all-in—and fans are loving every second.
So mark your calendars, cheer your hearts out, and get ready. The UST Golden squads are not just here to compete. They’re here to conquer.
Stay tuned, folks—this season’s just heating up. 🔥
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