Tigresses seal semis passage

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April 24, 2025 | 12:00am

MANILA, Philippines — Santo Tomas booted out University of the Philippines while sealing its entry into the Final Four with a 25-20, 25-21, 25-18 victory at the resumption of the UAAP Season 87 women’s volleyball yesterday at the Mall of Asia Arena.

Peaking at the right time, the Golden Tigresses punched their fourth straight win to jack up their slate to 9-4 as they slammed the door on the Fighting Maroons (6-7).

Santo Tomas’ win also gave twice-to-beat rivals La Salle (8-4) and Far Eastern U (8-5) early rides into the Final Four, avoiding any possible complications due to UP’s costly defeat.

But more than that, the Golden Tigresses put themselves in prime position to secure the other twice-to-beat incentive entering their final test this weekend against the reigning champion NU Lady Bulldogs, who clinched the No. 1 seed and the first bonus with an 11-2 slate.

Making it happen was Angge Poyos, who fired 19 points on 18 hits as Santo Tomas sent UP packing in only 90 minutes of play despite the latter marching into duel with an all-time high morale after slaying La Salle before the Holy Week break.

Regina Jurado chipped in 13 while Mary Banagua stepped up big time with 12 points on eight blocks, helping Santo Tomas gain a fifth straight Final Four appearance, including a Last Dance against the mighty NU last year.

Later, Angel Canino fired 22 points as La Salle (9-4) fended off also-ran Adamson (5-8), 25-19, 21-25, 22-25, 25-18, 15-4, to stay side by side with Santo Tomas in the race for the second seed and the last win-once bonus.

Shevana Laput (21) and Amie Provido (14) threw in solid contributions for the Lady Spikers, who quickly avenged their tough loss to UP to prime up for a crucial last game against fellow semifinalist FEU (8-4) this Saturday.