THE UST Tiger Sands concluded the UAAP Season 87 beach volleyball eliminations with an unbeaten record after sweeping their rivals from NU on Sunday, Nov. 24, at the Sands SM By The Bay.
With the victory, UST secured top spots in both the men’s and women’s divisions heading into the Final Four.
On the women’s side, the Tiger Sands took out the NU Lady Bulldogs in straight sets, 21-16, 21-11.
Alas Pilipinas mainstays Khy Progella and Sofia Pagara leaned on offensive precision to win the first set, 21-16.
In the second set, NU’s pair of Honey Grace Cordero and Kat Epa struggled to catch up, resulting in another UST win, 21-11.
In the men’s division, the reigning Tiger Sands extended their unbeaten streak with a commanding performance against the Bulldogs, 21-11, 21-14.
The UST tandem of Alche Gupiteo and Dominique Gabito used a 10-0 blitz en route to a 21-11 first-set win.
Bulldogs Sky Gemarino and Alex Iraya kept the game tied early in the second set, but the defending champions showcased their poise to seal the match, 21-14.
UST head coach John Paul Doloiras commended the team’s attention to detail but emphasized the value of maintaining focus in the Final Four.
“We’re happy to sweep the eliminations, but the semifinals are more crucial because they’re do-or-die games,” Doloiras told The Flame.
“We’re ready to face anyone.”
Acknowledging the pressure of the semi-finals, Doloiras stressed the need for heightened mental toughness.
“With this sweep, the players’ morale is high, and we just need to sustain it through the semifinals and finals,” the tactician added.
The schedule of the Final Four match is yet to be announced. F
