University of Santo Tomas returned to its winning ways via a 25-17, 25-23, 25-20 straight sets beating of University of the Philippines, Saturday in the UAAP Season 85 women’s volleyball tournament at the Philsports Arena in Pasig.
Eya Laure led the Golden Tigresses anew with 14 points on 11 attacks, two blocks, and an ace to go with six digs. Meanwhile, Imee Hernandez had 11 points on 9-of-18 spikes and fired two service aces.
Milena Alessandrini returned after not being fielded in UST’s three-setter defeat to Adamson University last Wednesday due to a right ankle sprain. And she made her presence felt right away with 10 points and five excellent receptions.
Bernadett Pepito was constant on the defensive side as usual with 15 excellent receptions and 11 digs.
“Magandang balik doon sa last na talo namin na medyo talagang… Hindi namin nakita na ganon yung lalaruin namin nung last time. Ito kahit papaano, nagkaroon ng additional motivation ulit para sa [players],” said head coach Kungfu Reyes.
The Fighting Maroons played catch-up in the second set, with Alyssa Bertolano’s off-the-block spike pulling them within one, 23-24. But Pierre Abellana answered with a kill to send UST to a 2-0 advantage.
UP then came out of the huddle inspired and launched a 4-1 start in the third before the Tigresses unleashed a huge run, with Laure dominating, to erect a 17-10 lead en route to the sweep.
UST rose to 3-2 at fourth, while the Fighting Maroons sank to seventh at 1-4.
Steph Bustrillo and Jewel Encarnacion both netted 10 points in the losing cause. Nina Ytang and Alyssa Bertolano score seven points apiece.
Up next for UST is Ateneo de Manila University on Wednesday, 3:00 PM, at the Filoil Ecooil Centre. UP returns on March 19 against the Blue Eagles as well.
