University of Santo Tomas completed the UAAP Season 85 Women’s Volleyball Final Four cast after eliminating Far Eastern University, 26-24, 22-25, 25-16, 25-23 on Sunday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.
The Golden Tigresses rose to 9-3 for a share of the second spot – and more importantly, a third consecutive Final Four stint.
Currently tied with National University, UST will face the defending champions on Wednesday in a big match-up for the remaining twice-to-beat slot in the Final Four.
“Final Four, thank you Lord! B7 activated especially nung latter part ng laro. Si Detdet ang [hinahanap] namin nung first set, second set at least nag-activate yung B7 namin,” said UST head coach Kungfu Reyes, praising libero Bernadett Pepito, who tallied 21 digs and 19 excellent receptions.
The Golden Tigresses pulled away from a close count of 10-9 in the third set with nine straight points to move a set away from the win, 25-16.
The Lady Tamaraws regained their form in the fourth period though, as they even took a 17-14 lead. But Imee Hernandez, Eya Laure, and Jonna Perdido combined for five unanswered points to shift the momentum back to UST.
Laure’s back-to-back aces shattered the last deadlock at 17-17.
With the Golden Tigresses already at match point, 24-21, FEU’s Alyzza Devosora got a point off an off-speed hit. Then Janna Torres’ attempt went long to inch within one, 24-23.
However, Laure delivered an off-the-block kill to finish the match in two hours and 15 minutes.
Laure erupted for 28 points on 23-of-47 attacks to go with three service aces, two blocks, as well as eight digs.
Hernandez had 19 points while opposite spikers Regina Jurado and Perdido both made seven points.
The Lady Tamaraws waved goodbye to their semis hopes after slipping to 6-7. They will end their campaign against Adamson University next Sunday.
Mitzi Panangin paced FEU with 12 points, while Gerzel Petallo stood out in her second career start with 11 points, 19 receptions, and five digs.
