THE UST Golden Tigresses overcame 37 errors to secure a hard-fought four-set victory against the LPU Lady Pirates in the V-League women’s collegiate challenge opener on Sunday, July 28.
UAAP Season 86 silver medalists edged out NCAA’s third placer, 25-22, 23-25, 25-20, 25-17, at the Paco Arena.
Opposite hitter Reg Jurado’s decisive hit through the block sealed the fourth frame, ensuring a successful curtain raiser for UST’s return to the league.
In the opening set, lefty Jonna Perdido’s seven-point barrage allowed UST to secure a 10-4 lead. Ace spiker Angge Poyos widened the gap with her powerful down-the-line kills, 18-9.
LPU responded with a five-point run led by open hitter Joan Doguna and middle blocker Heart Bio, narrowing the deficit to 19-15. Despite Johna Dolorito’s late surge, Poyos secured the set with a kill, 25-22.
The Lady Pirates bounced back as Bio and opposite hitter Janeth Tulang capitalized on the Tigresses’ 14 unforced errors to take the tight second salvo, 25-23.
Jurado dominated the third set with seven points, including three straight service aces, giving the España-based squad an early 10-5 edge. LPU’s errors allowed UST to clinch the set, 25-20, and to take a 2-1 set lead.
The Tigresses led the fourth frame by as much as seven points, courtesy of Perdido’s smart plays and solid net defense.
The new-look Tigresses showcased their depth with four players scoring in double digits: Perdido and Poyos with 16 points apiece, along with Jurado and prized rookie Marga Altea contributing 13 markers each.
Adding to the team’s arsenal are rookies open hitter Ashlee Knop, setter Arlene Waje, middle blockers Francine Osis and foreign student-athlete Blessing Unekwe
“We are a mix of veterans and rookies this time, and we are excited to play with the new players,” team captain Detdet Pepito told The Flame in an interview.
Dolorito led the Lady Pirates with 15 points, while NCAA’s best opposite spiker Tulang and Bio added 11 and 10 points, respectively.
The Golden Tigresses will face the UE Lady Red Warriors on Sunday, August 4, at the same venue. F
