By NIKOLE JAVIER
Unbeaten University of Santo Tomas tries to re-stamp its class against Ateneo in the second round of the UAAP Season 86 women’s volleyball tournament on Wednesday, March 20, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
The Golden Tigresses and Blue Eagles tangle at 4 p.m. with the former out to extend their brilliant run of victories to eight games.
Rookie Angge Poyos was behind the España squad’s historic feat following their rare seven-game sweep that put them on top of standings, slightly ahead of defending champion La Salle (6-1) and former titlist National University (5-2).
The high-leaping Poyos is not only the leading top scorer but also the top candidate for the Rookie of the Year and Most Valuable Player awards after her stellar first round showing.
Since her explosive debut, Poyos has continued to gain large following, what with her consistent fine showing.
Though the Blue Eagles have only two wins in seven games to their credit, they can’t be taken for granted.
For one, Ateneo is determined to end a two-game slot in the hope of boosting its Final Four bid.
In the first offering, NU is surely looking to vent its ire on University of the Philippines at 2 p.m.
The Bulldogs are still smarting from a sorry 5-set loss to the La Salle Lady Spikers.
Before the rematch of last season’s finalists, NU was riding the crest of a five-game winning streak.
NU’a high flying trio Bella Belen, Alyssa Solomon and Vange Alinsug are expected to fire on all fronts.
The Fighting Maroons will go into the game emboldened by a breakthrough win over the UE Lady Warriors.
The win ended UP’s 17-game losing skid dating from last season’s one-win campaign.
