University of Santo Tomas stormed back into contention, dismantling reigning NCAA champion Arellano University in straight sets, 25-18, 25-18, 25-15, to strengthen its grip on second place in the 2025 V-League Collegiate Challenge on Wednesday evening at the Paco Arena Events and Sports Center in Manila.
Coming off a tough reverse sweep heartbreak against National University, the Golden Spikers made full use of a 15-day break to recalibrate, with JJ Macam, Gboy de Vega, and Trevor Valera spearheading their return to form.
Macam dropped 14 points, five excellent receptions, and four digs, while De Vega powered through with 12 markers off 10 attacks.
Valera added nine points in the swift 74-minute affair that pushed UST to a 4-1 record in the eight-team tournament organized by Sports Vision.
“Ang una talaga namin prinepare ay yung mental toughness ng mga bata. Nung na-prepare na namin yung mental toughness after nung loss namin sa NU, prinepare naman namin yung skills nila para i-ready nila sa susunod na game,” UST assistant coach Benjamin Mape said.
“Nag-bunga sa panalo, tapos may kasunod pa kami na crucial game against FEU this Saturday.”
Veterans Sherwin Umandal and Vryvin Catinsag also chipped in six points apiece. Meanwhile, team captain Dux Yambao orchestrated the attack with 21 excellent sets on top of two markers.
A Ryuichi Yamanaka quick finish capped the win that kept UST firmly on track for a Final Four berth.
On the other hand, Arellano’s woes continued as the Chiefs dropped to 0-6. Jiwen Sinuto was the lone bright spot with 10 points as they now brace for their final elimination match against Ateneo on September 7.
Earlier in the day, Colegio de San Juan de Letran revived its semifinal hopes with a gritty 23-25, 25-15, 25-19, 25-23 win over College of Saint Benilde.
Behind the firepower of Dave Lardizabal and Bembem Bautista, the Knights overcame a first-set stumble to climb to 2-3, tying UAAP champion NU for fifth place.
Lardizabal erupted for 21 points on 18 attacks and three blocks, while Bautista backed him up with 18 points built on 14 attacks, two blocks, and two aces.
The Blazers, powered by NCAA MVP Rocky Motol’s 18 points and 17 excellent receptions, put up a fight and even seized a late 22-21 lead in the fourth set. But costly errors in the endgame, capped by Motol’s wide crosscourt attempt, sealed Benilde’s fall to 1-4 and placed them on the brink of elimination.
Felix Bermido (12 points, four digs) and captain Wayne Arano (26 excellent sets, five points) anchored Letran’s supporting cast. Vince Himzon and Paolo Lopez both chipped in timely contributions.
