Finals-bound University of the Philippines wrapped up its UAAP Season 87 Softball elimination round campaign on a high note, defeating University of Santo Tomas, 6-1, Saturday at the Rizal Memorial Baseball Stadium in Malate, Manila.
The Fighting Maroons finished with a 6-2 record heading into the Finals, while the Tiger Softbelles dropped to 3-5, currently sitting in fourth place.
Game 1 of the Finals between UP and the still-undefeated Adamson University (7-0) is set for Tuesday, with the game time yet to be determined.
Meanwhile, UST awaits the result of the ongoing matchup between De La Salle University (3-4) and Adamson. The Tiger Softbelles are hoping for an elimination round sweep by the reigning champion Lady Falcons, which would force a playoff for the bronze medal.
“Preparation namin ‘to for the championship, at hindi pa ako satisfied. Marami pang dapat i-improve kung talagang gustong manalo. So, ‘pag dating sa training, i-focus pa namin ‘yung maliliit na concerns, dapat ma-adjust pa namin,” said UP head coach Ron Pagkaliwagan.
(C) UAAP Season 87 Media Team
UST struggled against UP pitcher Celine Chang in the first three innings before the Fighting Maroons made adjustments that paid off. Danica Aquino ignited the offense in the fourth inning with a well-placed bunt, reaching base safely and setting the stage for UP’s scoring surge.
Captain Nickole Dela Cruz delivered the first of her two hits, bringing Aquino home for the go-ahead run. Shortstop Aila Subaldo followed with a game-changing hit, driving in two RBIs as Erika Ocampo and Reuel Caoagdan crossed the plate, extending UP’s lead to 4-0.
That offensive burst proved to be enough, as the Fighting Maroons tightened up on defense. Ace pitcher KC Valino relieved starter Diane Pasco and played a key role in securing the win.
Valino faced early pressure, walking Royeve Palma, the first batter she encountered, but quickly made a crucial defensive play. She caught a short fly ball from Anne Patricio and then threw to first baseman Martine Francisco, catching Palma off base for a double play.
UST had opportunities to close the gap but only managed to break through in the seventh inning. Pinch hitter Jenny Mae Teves and reigning Rookie of the Year Helga Campos combined for the Tiger Softbelles’ lone run. Teves, who came in for Palma, smashed a double before scoring off a single from Campos.
Valino sealed the victory with a pinpoint pitch to Shenna Mae Europa, which was cleanly fielded by third baseman Generose Torremocha. The San Miguel National High School product allowed just one run on three hits in her three-inning relief appearance while striking out three.
Pasco was credited with the win after holding UST scoreless through four innings, conceding only two hits while striking out three batters.
(C) UAAP Season 87 Media Team
For UST, Campos was the lone bright spot with one hit and one RBI. Chang absorbed the loss after allowing two earned runs on three hits, all in the fourth inning.
Mary Jane Beronilla surrendered UP’s insurance runs in the seventh inning, sealing the Fighting Maroons’ dominant performance.
| Teams | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | R | H | E |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| UP | 4 | 2 | 6 | 7 | ||||||
| UST | 1 | 1 | 5 | 2 |
