Ateneo ends UST’s streak in men’s, Tigresses dominate in women’s

Ateneo de Manila University and the University of Santo Tomas (UST) split victories in the UAAP Season 87 volleyball tournament on Sunday, March 9, at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, with the Blue Eagles stunning the Golden Spikers in the men’s division, while the Golden Tigresses swept Ateneo’s women’s volleyball team.

In the men’s match, Ateneo ended UST’s four-game winning streak with a 25-20, 25-22, 22-25, 25-21 victory, spoiling the return of two-time MVP Josh Ybañez.

The Blue Eagles pulled away late in the fourth set to secure the win, improving to a 3-2 record and tying De La Salle University in fourth place.

"Every team we face moving forward is a top team. All the teams in the UAAP are strong and capable of being champions," said Ateneo head coach Vince Mangulabnan.

"We have to prepare for them the same way every game—regardless of who they are or what their ranking is, even if they were to play at the world level. Our mindset should always be that we're facing a top-caliber opponent so that we don’t become complacent,” he added, emphasizing the importance of preparation moving forward.

Ken Batas led Ateneo with game-high 21 points while Amil Pacinio and Jian Salarzon provided support by putting up 17 and 12 markers, respectively.

Meanwhile, UST’s women’s team extended its winning streak to five after a dominant 25-20, 25-23, 25-21 win over Ateneo. 

Behind the efforts of Angge Poyos, Regina Jurado, and Pia Abbu, the Golden Tigresses unleashed a dominant 21-10 run to claim the first set.

UST remained in control for the rest of the match, with Poyos spearheading the offense with 19 points, while Jurado contributed 14 markers, including 12 attacks and two blocks. 

"All thanks to our coaches for their incredible patience and dedication in training us. They guide us individually and by skill department, making sure we improve. We truly owe this performance to them," said Abbu, who recorded a career-best 13 points, including eight spikes and a team-high five blocks.

Ateneo, already missing key players JLo Delos Santos and Zel Tsunashima due to season-ending injuries, suffered another setback when outside hitter Sobe Buena sustained a right leg injury in the first set. She landed awkwardly after a spike attempt and had to be stretched off the court.

With the loss, Ateneo dropped to a 1-4 record, falling to seventh place in the standings. AC Miner led the Blue Eagles with 13 markers, while Lyann de Guzman added 11, along with five receptions and four digs.