Manila: Defending champion University of Santo Tomas and National University emerged victorious in their respective matches on Wednesday, securing their places in the Final Four of the UAAP Season 87 men’s tennis tournament at the Felicisimo Ampon Tennis Center in the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex, Manila. UST triumphed over the University of the Philippines with a 4-1 victory, while NU swept Ateneo de Manila University, 5-0.
According to Philippines News Agency, both UST and NU now hold similar 7-1 records, followed by UP (6-3), University of the East (5-3), Ateneo (3-6), Adamson University (2-7), and De La Salle University (0-9). UST’s standout performances included Ericjay Tangub’s victory over Miguel Iglupas, 6-2, 5-7, 6-4, and Nilo Ledama’s comeback against Lance Fernandez, 6-7 (1), 6-3, 6-3. Additionally, Richard Bautista and Nash Agustines defeated Loucas Fernandez and Raymund Goco, 7-6(3), 6-2, while Steven Sonsona and Symon Jaculan overcame Andrei Jarata and Ava Mandac, 7-6(2), 6-2. UP’s lone win came from Aslan Carbonilla, who defeated Sebastian Santos, 4-6, 6-1, 6-1.
UST assistant coach Johnny Arcilla emphasized the importance of maintaining routine and fitness, stating, “We can’t afford to relax just yet. Our daily routine remains the same – training and ensuring our players maintain their fitness because that’s where matches are often decided.” He expressed confidence in his experienced players and stressed the need to stay focused.
Meanwhile, NU’s commanding performance was highlighted by Andrei Padao’s 6-0, 6-3 win over JD Velez in the first singles. EJ Tugade’s triumph over Stef Gurria, 5-7, 6-4, 6-4, and Jules Lazaro’s decisive victory against Gab Quintana, 6-0, 6-0, further solidified their dominance. In doubles, Christian Padilla and Angil Balaoing defeated JJ Llavore and Gian Camingue, 6-3, 6-2, while Gab Bandoquillo and Aljon Talatayod completed the sweep with a 6-0, 6-1 win over JB Cuarto and Aidyll Ignacio.
NU head coach Ronard Joven highlighted the lessons learned from last year’s Final Four experience, stating, “The same thing happened to us last year when we reached the Final Four, we know that just because we’ve made it doesn’t mean we can relax.” He emphasized the need for focus and effort, aiming for the top spots.
In another match, Adamson University defeated De La Salle University, 4-1. La Salle initially led with EJ Geluz’s win over Angelo Rosales, 6-7(1), 6-2, 3-0 (ret.), but Adamson bounced back with victories in the subsequent matches. Ramon Bentillo prevailed over Ohye Tortal, 5-7, 6-2, 6-3, Miecoz Candelasa defeated Yassan Al-Anazi, 6-4, 6-4, and the doubles teams of Herald Aton and Emmanuel Pedrosa, as well as Tristan Correos and Nikko Lumahang, secured crucial wins for Adamson.
