THE UST Golden Tigresses will enter their first-ever V-League women’s collegiate challenge finals after dominating the defending champions CSB Lady Blazers at the PhilSports Arena on Sunday, Sept. 22.
UAAP Season 86 silver-medalists booted the reigning NCAA champions in straight sets, 25-23, 25-15, 25-20, in Game 2 of the semifinals.
The Tigress trailed in the tight opening frame until outside hitter Angge Poyos delivered a pipe attack that glanced off the blockers, 15-all.
UST took set one after CSB setter Chenar Basarte was called for a double contact, 25-23.
It was a different story in the second salvo as the España squad established an early four-point lead with a down-the-line kill by lefty Jonna Perdido, 6-2. A block from Tigress middle blocker Chin Osis sparked a run that widened their lead to seven points, 13-6.
Despite both teams trading errors, UST maintained its dominance, closing out the second set comfortably to take a commanding two-set lead, 25-15.
The Tigresses went on a scoring run in the third frame with back-to-back hits from middle blocker Em Banagua, 13-9. The Lady Blazers then mounted a comeback after a block by middle blocker Zam Nolasco to tie the match, 16-all.
Catching fire, Jurado broke the deadlock with a powerful crosscourt attack that shifted the momentum in the final stretch, 20-19.
Angge Poyos delivered the decisive blow to seal the finals berth, 25-20.
The Tigresses showcased their offensive depth with four players scoring in double figures. Poyos led the way with 14 points, followed by Jurado with 12 markers. Perdido and Banagua added 11 markers apiece.
Lady Blazer Rhea Mae Densing stood out for the Lady Blazers with 12 points, while Wielyn Estoque chipped in 11 points.
Still undefeated, the Tigresses will face familiar foe FEU Lady Tamaraws in Game 1 of the finals on Sunday, Sept. 29, with the venue to be announced later. F
