UST bounces back at expense of undermanned UP

SAN JUAN, Philippines — The UST Golden Tigresses outgunned the handicapped UP Lady Maroons in four sets, 21-25, 25-22, 25-16, 25-20, to notch their second win of the season at the FilOil Flying V Centre on Sunday.

Playing without the services of starting setter Ayel Estranero, the Lady Maroons visibly struggled on offense during the game.

The Golden Tigresses started slow with the Diliman squad dictating the pace early on. Despite keeping the opening set close, UST dropped the opening set, 21-25.

Come second set, both squads were neck-and-neck with neither team giving up much of a lead to their opponents.

Things were still tied up at 22 late in the set but a crucial net touch call on the Lady Maroons shifted the momentum to UST to even things up at one set a piece, 25-22.

The Golden Tigresses dominated UP in third, with the Lady Maroons once again losing rhythm on offense.

Eya Laure, Sisi Rondina and Milena Alessandrini all pounced on the UP defense with explosive attacks.

Despite a late run from UP to nip at the lead, UST's lead was too much to overcome.

The Espana squad suddenly had a 2-1 advantage.

Fighting to keep themselves afloat, UP started the fourth set strong.

UP held a two-point lead early, 8-6.

But UP's fight would end there as a 6-0 run would turn the tide towards the Tigresses once again.

UST refused to relinquish the lead, weathering UP's run of their own to bring themselves back within 2, 16-18.

Relying on Alessandrini's offense, UST dealt with the Lady Maroons to end the game, 25-20.

Both squads now hold identical 2-1 records. 

Alessandrini led the Tigresses with 22 points while Laure and Rondina chipped in with 18 and 17, respectively.

Meanwhile, UP skipper Tots Carlos paced the Lady Maroons with 20.