University of Santo Tomas made a powerful statement in the V-League Women’s Collegiate Challenge, kicking off their campaign with commanding victories over Lyceum, University of the East, and Far Eastern University.
However, their path to remain unbeaten faced its sternest challenge yet when they squared off against the reigning NCAA and V-League champions, the College of St. Benilde Lady Blazers.
In a high-stakes showdown, the Golden Tigresses found themselves down two sets to one against the formidable Lady Blazers, who were determined to assert their dominance.
The match was a test of nerves and resilience for UST, and they responded with a remarkable comeback to secure a hard-fought victory, with set scores of 25-16, 19-25, 14-25, 25-22, 15-12. This gritty win allowed UST to stay unbeaten in the seven-team league organized by Sports Vision, solidifying their status as a top contender.
Head coach Kungfu Reyes acknowledged that while the team initially aimed for a sweep or at least a four-set win, the grueling five-set battle was invaluable for their preparation.
"Maganda ito. Ito yung mga moment[s] na hindi namin maituturo sa kanila; yung crowd, yung live audience, spotlight, cameras, referees,” Reyes explained.
“Sometimes yung controllable, nawawala para sa amin. Those things ang tinuturo namin, at the same time, ng mga ganitong game sa kanila: I-control ang kaya i-control."
The experience and leadership of UST’s veteran players were on full display in the critical fourth and fifth sets. Angge Poyos, Regina Jurado, Detdet Pepito, Pia Abbu, and Jonna Perdido stepped up to guide the team through a tense stretch, showcasing poise under pressure that proved decisive in their comeback win.
These seasoned players demonstrated the depth of the Golden Tigresses’ roster, showing that UST is more than just a team of promise—they are a squad built to compete against the best.
Reyes remains optimistic about the development of UST’s rookie core, which includes promising talents like Marga Altera, Blessing Unekwe, Francine Osis, and Sandrine Escober.
He believes that these young players will grow into their roles and, with time, develop the same level of composure and chemistry seen in their more experienced teammates.
“Huhubugin sila ng panahon, both the mainstays and rookies... Talagang itong mga experience na ganito ay magiging, hopefully, tougher sila all the time for those experiences na nangyari para sa kanila,” Reyes said.
