The UST Tigresses claimed their first win at FEU's expense. UAAP Media.
MANILA - University of Santo Tomas dismantled Far Eastern University in straight sets, 25-20, 25-16, 25-18, to barge into the winning column of the UAAP Season 82 Women's Volleyball Tournament, Sunday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.
Coming off a heartbreaker to National University last Wednesday, the Golden Tigresses vented their frustrations on the Lady Tamaraws.
"Nakabawi kami today. Maganda service namin, although may mga lapses pa rin kami na di maiiwasan pero nai-correct naman namin," UST head coach Kungfu Reyes said.
UST evened its card at 1-1 to forge a four-way logjam at the third spot with the Lady Tamaraws, Ateneo de Manila University and University of the Philippines.
Eya Laure spearheaded UST's bounce-back effort with an all-around performance of 16 points built on 12 attacks, three blocks and an ace while collecting 14 digs and eight receptions.
Her sister EJ had 12 markers, two of which came from aces. Caitlyn Viray and Imee Hernandez continued to be reliable for the Golden Tigresses, contributing nine and seven markers, respectively.
"So yun ang naging team effort yung nilaro namin today so ayun nakuha namin in straight sets," Reyes added.
The Golden Tigresses took turns belting FEU with a 17-9 whipping in the decisive third frame. It was more than enough to keep their opponents at bay.
Still, the Lady Tamaraws refused to go down without a fight.
Trailing by 10 late, the troika of Cza Carandang, Nette Villareal, and Ivana Agudo pumped life into the Lady Tamaraws, who pounced on UST's bench mob.
FEU rallied to within 16-23, before Jimenez and Babylove Barbon delivered the lethal blows to seal the deal.
Carandang and Villareal topped the Morayta-based squad with seven points each while Ivana Agudo managed six. Meanwhile, Gel Cayuna struggled with a measly eight-set outing.
For more sports coverage, visit the ABS-CBN Sports website.