With the second-longest winning streak in UAAP Season 87, the University of Santo Tomas (UST) Growling Tigresses look to extend their run to four straight wins when they take on the University of the Philippines (UP) Fighting Maroons on Wednesday at the Mall of Asia Arena.
Despite their recent success, the Tigresses remain cautious as UP has shown significant improvement this season and could pose a challenge.
“The scouting of their players is really a guessing game (for us),” UST assistant coach Yani Fernandez said in Filipino, acknowledging UP’s unpredictable lineup and rotation changes.
“We need to study their rotations each set because they have a different outside hitter and middle each time. We (coaching staff) will have to be patient,” he added.
UST Riding Three-Game Streak
The Tigresses opened their campaign with a loss to Far Eastern University (FEU) but have bounced back with three straight wins, including impressive victories over La Salle and Adamson.
While UST holds a five-game winning streak over UP dating back to 2023, they recognize the progress made under Fighting Maroons coach Benson Bocboc.
UP currently stands at 2-2, entering the match after back-to-back losses.
UST’s offense will once again rely on Angge Poyos and Reg Jurado, with Cassie Carballo orchestrating plays as the team’s setter. However, the Tigresses will need additional contributions, especially with Jonna Perdido and Xyza Gula ruled out for the season. Veterans and young players like Pia Abbu and Em Banagua will need to step up.
FEU Seeks First Winning Streak
Meanwhile, the FEU Lady Tamaraws aim for their first back-to-back wins of the season when they face the winless University of the East (UE) Lady Warriors at 2 p.m.
FEU coach Tina Salak wants her team to stay focused and avoid distractions, as they navigate an up-and-down season.
With UST and FEU both looking to solidify their standings, Wednesday’s matches will be crucial in shaping the early part of UAAP Season 87’s women’s volleyball tournament.
