University of Sto. Tomas’ Gboy De Vega and Josh Ybañez 

MANILA — University of Sto. Tomas’ strong start in the UAAP Season 86 men’s volleyball tournament continues all thanks to Josh Ybañez and Gboy De Vega.

Ybañez and De Vega led UST’s 28-26, 25-19, 26-24 sweep of University of the East on Wednesday at the Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City. 

The former finished with 12 points, 15 receptions, and two digs, while the latter scored a game-high 14 markers that were built on 12 attacks and two blocks. He also had 18 receptions to lead all players.

Dux Yambao also made his presence felt in the victory that allowed UST to move up to 2-0 as he scattered 20 excellent sets for his teammates. 

"Kapit lang talaga tapos sabi ko sa kanila, titibayan ko dito sa block tapos kayo bahala sa lalampas," said Yambao after the game. 

Down by six midway through the third after they already swept the first two sets, FEU went on a 10-3 spurt, and this allowed them to retake the lead, 24-23.

A score by Joshua Pozas extended the game as UE tried to avoid a sweep, but reigning MVP Ybañez and Yambao scored consecutive kills to end the game and send the Red Warriors to their second straight loss in as many games. 

"Na-test yung character ng mga player ko even though this is not a five-setter kasi 28-26, 26-24. Immaculate pa ‘rin yung record kaya lang marami kaming flaws today," expressed head coach Odjie Mamon after the game. 

Pozas paced the Red Warriors with 11 points, all came from attacks, to go with seven digs, while John Aligayon finished with 10 points and 13 receptions.

Joseph Bicar also stood out as he delivered all of UE’s 21 excellent sets. 

UST will try to extend their winning streak to three as they face De La Salle University on Sunday at 11 AM, while UE will be hoping to tally their first win in three games in their 9 AM bout against Far Eastern University on the same day.

Both games are part of the quadruple header at the Mall of Asia Arena.