By NIKOLE JAVIER
University of Santo Tomas fended off Far Eastern University’s spirited challenge, 26-24, 22-25, 25-16, 25-23, and secured the last Final Four seat in the UAAP Season 85 women’s volleyball on Saturday, April 23, at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.
The Golden Tigresses improved to 9-3 in the standings to complete the semis cast as they joined top seed La Salle, National University and Adamson.
With the four-set win, UST tied NU for second to third places with the other twice-to-beat incentive in the semifinals be determined at the end of the elimination round.
With a league-leading 11-1 mark, the Lady Spikers are already guaranteed of a bonus. They were playing against the also-ran Ateneo Blue Eagles at press time. They will close out their elimination campaign against winless UE on Saturday.
Eya Laure delivered anew for UST with 28 points on 23 attacks, two blocks and three service aces, while Imee Hernandez added 19 points of her own built on 16 attacks and three blocks.
After trailing by one late in the opening set, UST managed to overcome the deficit with gutsy plays to prevail.
However, the Lady Tamaraws responded with their own escape act in the next set to equalize the match at one set apiece.
UST then brushed off FEU’s fightback, pulling away from a slim 10-0 lead with a telling 7-0 run.
The fourth set was also tight and tense but Hernandez took matters into her own hands with back-to-back quick attacks followed by Laure’s two straight points from the service area, 19-17.
The Lady Tigresses then held their fort before Laure hammered down the clincher with a through-the-block hit.
Mitzi Panangin and Petallo paced the Lady Tamaraws with 12 and 11 points, respectively as they absorbed a 6-7 record at fifth.
