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V-League: UST ousts St. Benilde, sets up title clash with FEU
The UST Golden Tigresses celebrate against College of St. Benilde in the 2024 V-League Women’s Collegiate Challenge, September 22, 2024 at the PhilSports Arena. PVL Media
MANILA — University of Santo Tomas dethroned College of St. Benilde to advance to the Finals of the 2024 V-League Women’s Collegiate Challenge on Sunday at the PhilSports Arena.
The Golden Tigresses weathered a gritty stand from the Lady Blazers in the opening frame before cruising the rest of the way, 25-23, 25-15, 25-20, to set up an all-UAAP championship showdown with Far Eastern University.
Jonna Perdido delivered a clutch performance in the first set, nailing a crucial cross-court hit to break a 23-all count. A double contact violation by CSB’s Chenae Basarte allowed UST to steal the set and establish early control.
With momentum on their side, the Golden Tigresses took charge in the next two frames, sweeping their best-of-three semifinal series, following their four-set win in Game 1.
The victory also extended UST’s win streak to eight games, fueling the Golden Tigresses’ confidence as they head into the best-of-three finals against the Lady Tamaraws, who also swept the UE Lady Warriors in their own semis playoff.
“Nag-stick lang doon sa sistema. Nag-stick sa sistema, malinis na ‘yung galaw, ‘yung maturity little by little, nagagawan na nang paraan,” said UST head coach Kungfu Reyes.
“Yung harmony ng team nandoon, ‘yung mga different tasks nila nafu-fulfill so magandang indication kung bakit nga kami nasa finals. Nagagawan namin ng paraan every after error,” he added.
Perdido, who earned Player of the Game honors, led UST with 11 points, including the decisive attack in the opening set. Angge Poyos fired 16 points, with 14 from attacks, while Regine Jurado contributed 12 markers and added nine excellent digs.
Em Banagua also delivered 11 points, highlighting UST’s well-rounded offense.
Game 1 of the best-of-3 Finals series starts on Sunday at 3:00 p.m.
The dethroned champions, the Lady Blazers, will now face the UE Lady Warriors in the bronze medal match on Sunday at 12 p.m.
Rhea Densing paced CSB with 12 points, while Wielyn Estoque added 11 markers and seven excellent digs.
