Poyos delivers as UST gets past St. Benilde

MANILA, Philippines — Angeline Poyos delivered a stellar 22-point performance, including crucial hits in the decisive fifth set, to lead University of Santo Tomas past College of St. Benilde, 25-16, 19-25, 14-25, 25-22, 15-12, extending the Golden Tigresses’ unbeaten run in the V-League Women’s Collegiate Challenge at the Paco Arena in Manila yesterday.

Despite dropping back-to-back sets for the first time this season, the Golden Tigresses remained composed, relying on Poyos’ heroics to overcome Wielyn Estoque’s explosive 31-point outing for the Lady Blazers. The victory marked UST’s fourth consecutive win in the seven-team league organized by Sports Vision.

“Maganda, at least naka-recover kami, ‘yun naman ang sinasabi namin sa players kanina – i-control ang dapat i-control, magkaroon ng composure in times na hindi sumasabay samin yung momentum. Na-overcome naman namin,” said UST head coach Kungfu Reyes.

Trailing 4-6 in the fifth set, UST turned to Poyos and middle blocker Pia Abbu, who sparked a 5-1 run to push the Golden Tigresses ahead, 9-7.

Jonna Perdido then stepped up with a critical crosscourt hit, followed by a game-winning service ace.