Manila: Undermanned University of Santo Tomas-Gameville barged into the semifinals after a stunning 22-25, 20-25, 25-23, 25-23, 15-13 win over Far Eastern University-DN Steel in the Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference Sunday night at the Paco Arena. Rey Miguel De Vega, who made 20 excellent receptions, finished with 15 points, including two in the fifth set as the Golden Spikers claimed victory after one hour and 46 minutes.
According to Philippines News Agency, UST-Gameville, without head coach Odjie Mamon and players Josh Yba±ez, Al Bukharie Sali, and JJ Macam, who are currently with Alas Pilipinas in Taiwan, improved to a 5-2 win-loss record. ‘We thank the Lord because He gave us the wisdom on how to give [courage] to the players,’ UST-Gameville assistant coach Benjamin Mape said. ‘They gained confidence, because at first they doubted themselves. In the succeeding sets, they were able to do it. So they took the strength that we can do it even though we are incomplete,” he added.
Trevor Valera paced the Golden Spikers with 16 points off 10 attacks and six blocks. Sherwin Jan Umandal, Kris Gabriel Hernandez, and Andrei Delicana contributed nine points each, while John Catinsag added eight points. Doula Ndongala scored a tournament-best 17 points built on 13 attacks, three blocks, and one ace for the Tamaraws, who ended their campaign in sixth place at 2-5. Charles David Absin and Dryx Saavedra chipped in 15 and 13 points, respectively.
