UE nears first ever UAAP taekwondo crowns

MANILA, Philippines – University of the East grabbed the solo lead in the men's and women's divisions to inch closer for a golden double Thursday in the UAAP Season 78 taekwondo tournament at the Blue Eagle Gym.

Handled by Jeffrey Figueroa, the Red Warriors defeated University of the Philippines, 6-1, and Ateneo, 5-2, to stretch their perfect run to four.

Not to be outdone are the Lady Warriors, who nipped the Tigresses, 4-3, and De La Salle, 6-1, to stay unbeaten in four starts.

UE is gunning for its first ever taekwondo titles in both divisions.

The Green Archers defeated the Growling Tigers, 4-3, to tie their victims in second place in men's play at 3-1. In the morning session, La Salle downed Far Eastern University, 4-3, while UST edged UP, 4-3.

The Lady Archers, who tripped the Lady Eagles, 4-3, in the morning session, are also tied with the Tigresses in second spot with three wins and one loss.  After bowing to UE, UST blasted National University, 5-2.

With the Warriors' onslaught, the Tigers are in danger of getting shutout in the men's and women's race for the first time since the taekwondo tournament first played in 1994.

Ateneo is in contention for a podium finish in the men's division with a 2-2 record in fourth spot, while reigning women's titlist UP and FEU are in joint fourth at 2-2.

Fights resume on Wednesday with the poomsae and juniors competition, while the last day of action in the men's and women's will be held on Friday.