UNIVERSITY of Santo Tomas and Far Eastern University eye big wins anew today to complete a sweep of the women’s and men’s titles in Game 2 of the 2024 V-League Collegiate Challenge best-of-three finals at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig City.
The Golden Tigresses try to capitalize on the momentum of their 25-22, 25-18, 25-14 victory over the FEU Lady Tamaraws in Game 1 last Sunday. A win at 5 p.m. will not only complete an unbeaten run but also give them their first championship in the league since 2010.
Detdet Pepito and Jonna Perdido will again lead UST’s defense, while the tandem of Ange Poyos and Regine Jurado will look to keep their attacking rhythm going.
Coach Kungfu Reyes emphasized the importance of their defensive system in countering their lack of height, saying: “Talagang ini-ensayo namin ‘yang ganyang situation, ‘yang skills na ‘yan. Doon kami malakas, sa gano’ng part ng defense pattern namin. Kaya naco-compensate namin sa atake kasi hindi naman kami gaanong katangkaraan. Pero marunong kaming pumalo.”
Reyes added the team will stick to their program, prioritizing recovery and preparation before heading into the crucial match.
The Lady Tamaraws hope to extend the series to a decider this Friday.
In the men’s side, the Tamaraws are eyeing their first V-League title with the team raring to display the form they showed in their 25-22, 25-20, 18-25, 25-19 victory over the De La Salle Green Spikers last Sunday.
Leading the charge anew is Dryx Saavedra, who will be backed by rookies Amet Bituin and Mikko Espartero.
FEU coach Eddieson Orcullo stressed the importance of maintaining strength throughout the game.
“The moment na kukunin mo ‘yung isang bagay, sa simula hanggang dulo, finish stronger. So, siguro ‘yun ang panghahawakan namin this Wednesday. ‘Pag magsimula kami ng matibay, hanggang matapos dapat tibay pa rin,” said Orcullo.
