THE UST Golden Spikers extended their winning streak to three after dominating the bottom-seed UP Fighting Maroons, 25-13, 25-22, 25-21, in the UAAP Season 86 men’s volleyball tournament on Wednesday.
This crucial win at the Mall of Asia Arena solidified UST’s bid for a Final Four spot, improving their record to 7-4. Meanwhile, UP remained winless with a 0-11 record.
The Golden Spikers asserted their composed offense from the get-go, fueled by 14 attacks, two blocks and three aces, which quickly put pressure on the Fighting Maroons.
Capitalizing on UP’s six unforced errors, including an attack fault by Loisa Gamban, the UST secured a commanding 25-13 first-set win.
The second set saw a different story unfold initially. UP’s Jaivee Malabanan challenged UST with an early down-the-line kill, tying the score at 4-all. However, the Golden Spikers remained composed, sparking a run to regain the lead at 6-5.
The Fighting Maroons displayed persistent rallies, but UST held firm, with Popoy Colinares delivering a crucial quick attack after a timeout to widen the gap to 19-17. Outside hitter Gboy de Vega then sealed the set with back-to-back crosscourt kills, 25-22.
The third set turned into a tense battle. UP opposite hitter Angelo Lagando’s explosive attack off a missed UST reception gave UP a lead at 12-11.
UST called a timeout and regrouped effectively. Kenneth Salvador, who entered the game after Colinares suffered a bad fall, provided a spark off the bench.
Salvador’s crucial power tip in the closing moments derailed UP’s attempt at a comeback, leading the Golden Spikers to a 25-21 victory and a clean sweep.
Reigning MVP Josh Ybañez powered UST with a 23-point production from 21 attacks and two aces, with a 60% attack efficiency.
De Vega contributed 13 markers while Colinares and setter Dux Yambao added six and five points, respectively.
“It’s a great win for us, [a] confidence boost for us. I’m so happy that I can see the aggressiveness of my teammates,” Ybañez said postgame.
“I’m also happy because if ever [I’m not playing well], they’ll be there. Again, it’s a collaborative effort,” he added.
Lagando and Malabanan paced the Fighting Maroons with 12 and 10 points, respectively.
The Golden Spikers look to seal a victory from the top-seeded FEU Tamaraws on Saturday, April 13, at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium. F
