UST rallies to beat La Salle in five sets

University of Santo Tomas secured its third straight victory in the UAAP Season 86 women's volleyball tournament by defeating defending champion De La Salle University in a thrilling five-set match on Sunday, February 25, at Mall of Asia Arena.

UST overcame a two-set deficit to win the final set 15-12 and maintain their unbeaten record with a total of 3-0, erasing the invincible image of the Lady Spikers in front of an enthusiastic crowd of over 12,200 spectators.

Jonna Perdido led UST with 24 points, including 21 kills and three blocks, earning Player of the Game honors, while rookie Angeline Poyos contributed 22 points to help secure the victory.

Captain Detdet Pepito highlighted heart and determination as key factors to their success, emphasizing that desire outweighed La Salle's height advantage despite lapses in the third and fourth sets.

UST head coach Emilio 'Kungfu' Reyes praised his team's resilience during a crucial timeout in the fifth set, which sparked a late 6-0 run led by rookie Angge Poyos and Mary Banagua's dump at the net.