V-League: UST thwarts Perpetual, sets up semis clash with Ateneo

MANILA, Philippines – UST turned up a notch in the final set to book themselves a semis seat, mustering enough spunk and energy to repulse Perpetual Help, 21-25, 25-18, 25-22, 19-25 and 15-11, in the Shakey’s V-League Season 10 First Conference at the Fil-Oil Flying V Arena in San Juan on Thursday.

“We had a slow start because some of our players were sick. Carmela (Tunay) and Aiza (Maizo) were not 100 percent but luckily we pulled off the win,” said UST head coach Odjie Mamon.

Maika Ortiz poured in 23 points, including 21 kills, while Maizo and Jessey De Leon chipped in 12 and 11 markers, respectively, for the Espana-based squad.

Mamon said he is satisfied with his current lineup and doesn't plan to change it for the Final Four.

“I think Ateneo will change one guest player. We are still anticipating their next move but we will not change in our lineup. I’m happy with the players we have,” said Mamon.

“But in the semis, our substitution pattern will change and players will be rotating more quickly.” he added.

Guest player Joy Cases topscored for the Lady Altas with 17 points while Honey Tubino and Sandra Delos Santos scattered 16 and 14 points, respectively, to backstop their import in their losing cause.

UST mainstays Maru Banaticla and Judy Caballejo will likely see more action in the next round after being used sparingly this conference.

“Lately, they have been playing well in our scrimmages and hopefully we can utilize them properly in the semis,” said Mamon.

With the win, UST forged a semifinal duel with fellow crowd favorite Ateneo. Adamson will face NU in the other semis encounter.

Game time is on Tuesday at 2 p.m. for the UST-Ateneo match while NU-Adamson is set at 4 p.m. Both matches will be held at the Philsports Arena in Pasig.