Tigresses maul Lady Stags, claim 2nd finals berth

MANILA, Philippines - Foiled the last time out, University of Santo Tomas got the job done this time, finishing off San Sebastian College with a 25-12, 25-13, 25-23 victory yesterday in their sudden death for the second finals berth in the ninth Shakey’s V-League Presented by Smart at The Arena in San Juan.

Bracing for another five-set thriller that has marked their last two games, including a come-from-behind 22-25, 29-27, 14-25, 25-23; 15-12 victory by the Lady Stags Tuesday that set up the rubber match, the Tigresses imposed their will early and swept the first two sets in emphatic fashions then steeled themselves up in the third set to complete the sweep in one-hour and 12 minutes.

“We’re back, we’re playing inspired ball because Jean (Balse) has been trying to give it her all despite not being 100 percent,” said UST coach Odjie Mamon referring to his local guest player, a former league MVP who had two blocks, two service aces and two hits points despite playing with a left-knee injury.

The victory lined up UST against defending champion Ateneo in what promises to be a classic title showdown between two of the leading teams in the league sponsored by Shakey’s Pizza.