TOP-SEEDED UST Male Tennisters wrapped up the UAAP Season 87 men’s tennis eliminations with a commanding 4-1 win over the Ateneo Blue Eagles on March 30, Sunday, at the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex.
The defending champions will head into the semifinals with a twice-to-beat advantage after securing an 11-1 record.
UST head coach Alexander Diego said that the team is experienced and well-prepared for high-pressure situations, especially with the Final Four approaching.
“They already know how to handle the pressure because it’s the same core lineup we’ve had for the past two years,” Diego told The Flame.
The champion coach also emphasized the importance of lineup decisions and strategic adaptability based on matchups and form.
“The lineup is the most important part—strategically deciding who plays based on their performance. We make adjustments depending on the opponent,” he added.
On the other side, the Blue Eagles settled with a 3-9 record for fifth place.
Male Tennisters’ top gun Steven Sonsona opened the day with a dominant performance, dismantling Rafa Mendoza in straight sets, 6-0, 6-1.
Ericjay Tangub continued the España squad’s charge in the second singles, overwhelming JB Cuarto, 6-1, 6-0.
Reigning MVP Nilo Ledama showed no signs of mercy, blanking Blue Eagle Gab Quintana, 6-0, 6-0, in the third singles match.
Last season’s silver medalists managed to avoid a sweep as Ateneo co-captains Steff Guria and JD Velez overcame Steven Sonsona and Brent Cortes, 6-3, 6-1, in the first doubles match.
UST sealed the deal in the second doubles after Richard Bautista and Vince Serino survived Ateneo’s tandem of JJ Llavore and Gian Camingue in a tight finish, 7-5, 4-6, 12-10.
The Male Tennisters will face the UP Fighting Maroons in the semifinals on Saturday, April 5, at the same venue. F – with reports from Yanina Alison Baltazar
