University of Santo Tomas and Far Eastern University opened their campaigns with resounding victories on Wednesday to kick off the UAAP Season 87 Men’s and Women’s Table Tennis Tournament respectively at Ayala Malls Manila Bay.
The UST Tiger Paddlers, aiming for a record-extending 31st UAAP title and a fifth straight championship, secured back-to-back wins to top the men’s division standings with a flawless 2-0 record.
UST began their campaign with a 3-1 victory over Adamson University before sweeping FEU, 3-0.
Leading the charge was Season 85 top rookie Eljay Tormis, who dominated both his assignments.
Despite teammate Ray Manlapaz dropping the opening singles match against Adamson, Tormis quickly turned the tide with an 11-6, 11-4, 11-8 victory over Amiel Sumadsad.
The national team standout capped the day by dispatching FEU’s Arsenio de Guzman in straight sets, 11-9, 11-6, 11-3.
With these wins, UST extended their remarkable winning streak to 30 ties, dating back to Game 2 of the Season 82 finals against National University on November 20, 2019.
De La Salle University and University of the Philippines also ended Day 1 with identical 2-0 slates, tying UST at the top of the standings.
Meanwhile, Ateneo de Manila University holds solo third with a 1-1 card.
(C) UAAP Season 87 Media Team
In the women’s division, the Lady Tamaraws delivered a stellar performance, finishing with an unblemished 2-0 record to claim the top spot.
Their quest for their first title since Season 73 (2010) began with a win over Adamson, followed by a shocking upset of reigning champions De La Salle.
Sophomore standout Shairah Gabisay played a pivotal role for FEU, clinching victories in both her singles matches.
She first defeated Adamson’s Trinthel Calucin, 13-11, 11-8, 11-7, before outlasting La Salle’s Kyla Bernaldez in a thrilling four-set duel, 11-9, 6-11, 16-14, 12-10.
UST’s Lady Paddlers also ended Day 1 with a 2-0 slate, joining FEU at the top of the standings.
Ateneo, La Salle, and University of the East shared second place with identical 1-1 records.
