By ADRIAN STEWART CO

The University of Santo Tomas (UST) Golden Tigresses had a rousing start in the Shakey’s Super League as they defeated the University of Perpetual Help Lady Altas, 25-12, 21-25, 25-15, 25-21, at the San Juan Arena on Saturday night, September 16.

Incoming rookie Angeline Poyos was named Player of the Game after finishing with 20 points, including 16 attacks, as the Golden Tigresses gained an early lead in the Pool C standings.

Kyla Cordora contributed 13 markers, while Regina Jurado also made her presence felt with 11 points for the Golden Tigresses, which are using the tournament as part of their preparation for the UAAP Season 86 tournament.

The Golden Tigresses went on a massive 10-1 run in the first set en route to a lopsided 25-12 win, but the Lady Altas bounced back in the second frame at 25-21 to tie the set score at 1-1.

UST bounced back in the third frame behind Poyos as they clinched a lopsided 25-15 win before they were pushed to the limit by the Lady Altas in the fourth frame, but three straight points from Poyos sealed the win for the Golden Tigresses.

“It is a good game. A win is a win. Medyo marami pang kailangang ipagpag, especially sa second unit,” Golden Tigresses head coach Emilio “Kung Fu” Reyes said in a post-game interview.

“Actually, wala namang nabago sa [second unit] namin. ‘Yun pa rin ‘yung naglaro last time. Kailangan lang namin ayusin,” he said.

“Next game is Monday, so kailangang maayos namin ‘yung galaw namin,” he added.

Reigning NCAA Most Valuable Player awardee, Mary Rhose Dapol, top-scored for the Lady Altas with 11 points, while veteran Winnie Bedaña contributed 10 markers in the loss.

In the nightcap, the Arellano University Lady Chiefs scored a 25-15, 25-21, 25-21 victory over the San Beda University Lady Red Spikers to kick off their campaign in Pool B.

Laika Tudlasan displayed an all-around performance for the Lady Chiefs to be named as the Player of the Game./ASC, WDJ