UST edges CSB in five-set thriller, keeps V-League semis hopes alive

Sports | Volleyball Posted on 2026-09-20 10:57:13

MANILA – University of Santo Tomas kept its bid for a semifinal berth alive after surviving College of Saint Benilde, 25-15, 23-25, 25-22, 24-26, 22-20, in the V-League Collegiate Challenge on Sunday at Gameville Central Park in Mandaluyong City.

The Golden Spikers overcame a late fightback from the Blazers in the deciding set to secure the victory after two hours and 35 minutes of play.

With the score tied at 20-all in the fifth set, Rey Miguel De Vega delivered a crucial spike before Jan Julian Macam and Al Bukhaire Sali combined for a block on Benilde's Reymark Betco to close out the match.

Assistant coach Benjamin Mape credited the players for maintaining their composure in the crucial moments.

“The kids wanted it. They were the ones who performed. We simply acted as guides for the game. They wanted it and that’s how we secured this win,” Mape said.

The victory improved UST's record to 3-3 and kept the team in contention for the final semifinal spot.

UST will face defending champion Far Eastern University on Sept. 26 in a crucial match that could determine its postseason fate.

De Vega led the Golden Spikers with 23 points, including 22 attacks and an ace, while also recording 22 excellent receptions.

Sali added 22 points from 17 attacks, three aces and two blocks, while Macam finished with 15 points. Libero Edriel Alabar contributed 28 excellent receptions.

Betco paced the Blazers with 29 points, highlighted by 26 attacks and three blocks. Rocky Roy Motol added 12 points, while Kim Cris Liray had nine.

Benilde dropped to 2-4 following the five-set defeat.

NPO NEWS TEAM | PNA-PR

Share:

Writer :

Link :