By Ardyn Gonzales
University of Sto. Tomas Lady Tigresses are now a win away from a twice-to-beat advantage in the semis after taking down the Far Eastern University Lady Tamaraws, 26-24, 22-25, 25-16, 25-23, in the UAAP Season 85 women’s volleyball tournament, Sunday, at the Mall of Asia Arena.
Just like in their first round match-up, UST needed to overcome the gallant fight by FEU in four sets.
The Lady Tamaraws were leading in the first set, 21-16, until Ren Peñafiel sparked a 5-0 run to tie the match at 21-all. Both teams exchanged points in an extended set but it was UST who emerged victorious behind the clutch plays from Eya Laure coupled with miscues from FEU.
The Lady Tigresses lost the second set to the Lady Tamaraws but they quickly recovered in the third after a 9-0 run that created a huge separation down the stretch.
FEU threatened to force a rubber set when they saved three match points in the fourth frame, 24-23. But Laure stopped the bleeding and came up with a strong off-the-block attack to seal their ninth victory in the elimination round.
Eya Laure led all scorers with 28 points, on 23 attacks, two kill blocks, and three service aces. Imee Hernandez established a dominating presence at the net, finishing with 19 markers on 16 attacks and three kill blocks.
UST now has a 9-3 record tied with defending champions NU. The Lady Tigresses and Lady Bulldogs will face each other on Wednesday to determine who will be armed with an edge in the semifinals.
Meanwhile, Mitzi Panangin finished with 12 points for FEU as they bid farewell to their semis hopes after the loss.
Featured image courtesy of UAAP
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