The top-seeded University of Santo Tomas and Far Eastern University are on the brink of securing the women's and men's titles, respectively, in Game 2 of the 2024 V-League Collegiate Challenge best-of-three finals presented by Grab on Wednesday at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig City.
The Golden Tigresses look to capitalize on the momentum of their commanding 25-22, 25-18, 25-14 victory over the FEU Lady Tamaraws in Game 1 last Sunday. A win today at 5 p.m. will not only complete an unbeaten run but also secure their first championship in the league since 2010.
Stalwarts Detdet Pepito and Jonna Perdido will once again lead UST's defense, while the tandem of Ange Poyos and Regine Jurado will look to keep their attacking rhythm.
Head coach Kungfu Reyes emphasized the importance of their defensive system in countering their lack of height.
“Talagang ine-ensayo namin 'yang ganyang situation, 'yang skills na 'yan. Doon kami malakas, sa gano'ng part ng defense pattern namin. Kaya naco-compensate namin sa atake kasi hindi naman kami gan'ong katangkaraan. Pero marunong kaming pumalo,” said Reyes.
Reyes added that the team will stick to their program, prioritizing recovery and preparation before heading into the crucial match.
Meanwhile, the FEU Lady Tamaraws hope to extend the series to a decider on Friday with a bounce-back performance.
On the men’s side, the Tamaraws are eyeing their first-ever V-League title with the team raring to re-display the form they showed in their 25-22, 25-20, 18-25, 25-19 victory over the De La Salle Green Spikers last Sunday.
Leading the charge once again is Dryx Saavedra, who will be backed by rookies Amet Bituin and Mikko Espartero, as they face defending champions UST at 2 p.m.
FEU head coach Eddieson Orcullo stressed the importance of maintaining strength throughout the game.
“The moment na kukunin mo 'yung isang bagay, sa simula hanggang dulo, finish stronger. So, siguro 'yun ang panghahawakan namin this Wednesday. 'Pag magsimula kami ng matibay, hanggang matapos dapat tibay pa rin,” said Orcullo.
