After a heartbreaking defeat last season and a recent loss to De La Salle University, the University of Santo Tomas Golden Tigresses returned to their hallowed home court with a statement: they are not to be underestimated.
Before a packed crowd at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion, the Golden Tigresses took down the FEU Lady Tamaraws in four sets, completing a season sweep over one of their fiercest rivals.
The victory was more than just another win; it was a measure of redemption and a crucial morale boost for the team.
Leading the charge was Angge Poyos, who tallied 18 points on 15 attacks, two blocks, and a service ace.
While she celebrated the triumph, Poyos admitted that playing at home brings its own unique pressures.
“Sobrang special nito kasi pinanghugutan namin last season na hindi kami nanalo sa kanila. Need talaga namin bumawi this season, at ayun nga, home court advantage. Hindi ko alam kung advantage o disadvantage ba ‘yun kasi ang dami naming errors,” said the 22-year-old outside spiker.
“Maraming lesson ang natutunan namin, pero hindi kami titigil hanggang matapos ang season. Ang goal namin — makapasok sa Final Four — nandoon pa rin, and we still have hope.”
(C) UAAP Season 88 Media Team
For UST, this home game came at the perfect moment, following a painful loss to the Lady Spikers where they squandered a 20–12 lead in the third set.
The overwhelming support from the Thomasian community at the QPAV provided more than just a competitive edge — it reminded the team that the school stands behind them, win or lose.
UST captain Detdet Pepito felt that energy lifted her squad.
The senior libero, who recorded 21 excellent digs against FEU, emphasized the pride and motivation that came from defending their home court.
“Bilang last playing year ko, sobrang saya kasi sabi ko nga, ‘Yes, di ako gagraduate na talo sa FEU.’ Nakabawi talaga kami ng 2–0, so malaking pride sa school namin ‘yun,” Pepito said.
“Special din ‘to kasi home court namin, and ang saya lang makita na nandiyan pa rin yung UST community kahit anong mangyari. Maraming-maraming salamat po sa kanila, at sana ‘wag silang magsawang suportahan kami hanggang matapos ang season.”
With this win, the Golden Tigresses not only reclaimed their pride but also sent a strong message: UST is back in the hunt, and they are determined to fight all the way to the Final Four.
#WATCH: ‘YUNG PUSO 🐯
Detdet Pepito looked back on UST’s loss to La Salle and how it made them realize that they needed to show more heart in #UAAPSeason88 🏐#ReadMore 👉 https://t.co/73HmrKm5SQ
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