The University of Santo Tomas Golden Tigresses blasted the University of the East Lady Warriors, 25-17, 25-15, 25-21, to break into the Season 80 win column at the FilOil Flying V Centre.
UST had control of the match throughout, burying UE in a 16-9 hole in the first set before going on a 17-10 blitz in the second frame. The Lady Warriors took advantage of a momentary lapse in UST’s reception to take 13-11 advantage in the third set. But the Tigresses eventually climbed back behind the incendiary effort of Cherry Rondina. The Tigresses went on a 12-10 run to clinch the win.
Cherry Rondina continued her marvelous offensive start, scoring 20 points off 19 attacks and a block. Dimdim Pacres added eight markers.
The Golden Tigresses were without Carla Sandoval, who was experiencing pain due to her wisdom tooth.
“Maganda start ito para sa amin. Hindi man kami nanalo noong first game, makikita mo na nandoon na kami. Papalag at papalag kami sa mga kalaban namin,” said UST head coach Kungfu Reyes.
Mary Ann Mendrez topped the Lady Warriors with 10 points. Judith Abil managed nine markers.
Both teams play again on Sunday at the FilOil Flying V Centre. The Tigresses (1-1) take on the Ateneo de Manila University Lady Eagles (0-1), while UE (0-2) face the National University Lady Bulldogs (1-0).
The Scores
UST (3) – Rondina 20, Pacres 8, Francisco 7, Alessandrini 6, Palec 5, Bicar 2, Viray 1, Bangad 0, Camaligan 0, Dizon 0, Pollentes (L), Rivera (L)
UE (0) – Mendrez 10, Abil 9, Olarve 4, Sta Maria 4, Rodriguez 4, Adorador 2, Baliton 2, Bendong 1, Manabat 1, Lopez 0, Santos 0, Arado (L)
