University of Santo Tomas weathered a gritty stand from the College of Saint Benilde in the opening set before dominating the next two to clinch a 25-23, 25-15, 25-20 victory on Sunday at the Philsports Arena, sealing a finals showdown against Far Eastern U in the 2024 V-League Women’s Collegiate Challenge.
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 One.
Game One of the Finals, also a best-of-three affair, begins on Sunday at 3 p.m.
“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.
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.
