UST, NU claim semis bonuses in UAAP men’s tennis

University of Santo Tomas and National University secured twice-to-beat advantages in the UAAP Season 87 Men’s Tennis Tournament with victories over University of the East and University of the Philippines, respectively, on Saturday at the Felicisimo Ampon Tennis Center in Manila.
The pivotal first doubles match saw Richard Bautista and Nash Agustines fend off a determined Kiz Bryan Cinco and Mark Dave Palanas, 6-2, 6-2, securing a 3-2 victory and bolstering the Male Tennisters’ bid for a third consecutive title in the tournament.
“Sa Final Four, I think UP at UE ‘yung magtatapat bukas. Kung sino ‘yung kalaban, sila ‘yung makakalaban namin so prepared kami,” said UST team captain Nilo Ledama.
Reigning MVP Ledama set the tone early with a composed 6-3, 6-1 victory over Red Warrior JB Aguilar in the second singles match. Ericjay Tangub maintained the pressure, battling through the second singles to claim a 6-3, 6-4 win over UE’s Gerald Gemida.
Marc Suson kept UE’s hopes alive with a gritty 6-2, 2-6, 6-4 triumph over Sebastian Santos in first singles. However, Kent Morales and RJ Baje overpowered Steven Sonsona and Symon Jaculan in second doubles, 7-5, 7(7)-6(4), sealing the tie on a strong note.
With the win, UST hiked its record to 10-1, while UE dropped to fourth at 7-4.
Meanwhile, following UST’s victory, NU secured the second twice-to-beat advantage by avenging its first-round loss to UP with a 4-1 win.
Jules Lazaro weathered a tough challenge from Aslan Carbonilla in the third singles, 1-6, 6-4, 7-5 to clinch the tie for the Bulldogs.
With the win, the Bulldogs solidified their hold on the second seed at 9-2, while the Fighting Maroons, now 7-4, remained tied for third with the Red Warriors.
In the women’s division, defending champion NU capped the elimination round with a commanding 4-1 victory over UP, setting the stage for the finals.
Adi Abadia and Rovie Baulete’s steady play in first doubles secured a 6-4, 6-2 win over Jesha Cervantes and JM Prado, sealing NU’s overall triumph.
UP’s Jufe Cocoy struck first in first singles, dominating Jasmine Jaran 6-1, 6-3.
The Lady Bulldogs concluded the eliminations at 7-1, tying UST in the standings, while UP wrapped up in third place at 4-4.