University of Santo Tomas put on a show for its home crowd at the Quadricentennial Pavilion, dominating University of the East in straight sets, 25-11, 25-14, 25-14, in the UAAP Season 88 Collegiate Women’s Volleyball Tournament on Saturday.
Jonna Perdido regained her confidence after missing last season due to a torn ACL, leading the Golden Tigresses to victory and an even 2-2 record after opening the tournament with two straight losses.
The 5-foot-9 outside spiker delivered 10 points on five spikes, three aces, and two blocks, while also recording six excellent digs and four excellent receptions.
(C) UAAP Season 88 Media Team
“Happy and proud kasi slowly, nakakaadapt kami sa bawat isa kung ano ‘yung gusto naming gawin. We know na ang dami pa naming kailangang i-improve, pero ang good thing, meron kaming magandang result ngayon,” said UST head coach Shaq Delos Santos.
Fueled by the support of their home fans, UST started strong in all three sets, leaving UE scrambling throughout the match.
The Golden Tigresses set the tone early, cruising to an 8-0 lead in the first set, followed by a 10-2 advantage in the second, and an 11-1 lead in the third, finishing the game in just 78 minutes.
“Nasa 8 out of 10 na po siguro ako kasi nabigyan po ako ng playing time ngayong laro, so thankful ako kay Coach Shaq for this game. Minindset ko lang na ilabas lang kung paano ako maglaro,” said Perdido.
Cassie Carballo orchestrated the offense with 13 excellent sets while also contributing five points herself.
Angge Poyos led the Golden Tigresses with 11 points, and middle blockers Avril Bron and Marga Altea added eight points each.
Regina Jurado also contributed eight points as UST dominated in all scoring categories: 36-15 in spikes, 9-0 in blocks, and 8-4 in service aces.
UST aims for its third straight win next Saturday against Adamson University at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
Khy Cepada, a former Junior Tigress, scored nine points for UE, which fell to 0-4. The Lady Warriors will face defending champion National University on Wednesday, also at the Big Dome.
(C) UAAP Season 88 Media Team
