UST clinches Final Four slot behind Poyos' 31 points

University of Santo Tomas clinched a slot in the UAAP Season 86 women's volleyball Final Four after defeating Adamson University, 22-25, 25-20, 26-24, 25-20, on Wednesday at the Mall of Asia Arena.

Rookie Angge Poyos led the Golden Tigresses as she erupted for 31 points on 27 attacks, three aces, and a block — a new record for a UAAP rookie in the women's tournament in the Final Four era.

The win also came after UST was dealt its first loss in the season by National University.

"Thankful kasi comeback game nga for us kasi natalo kami last game against NU. Thankful kasi nakapag-contribute pa rin ako sa game. Thankful din ako sa mga ates ko kasi patuloy silang kumakapit at lumalaban para sa team,” Poyos said.

(I'm thankful because this is our comeback game after losing the last one against NU. Thankful also that I was able to contribute in the game. Thankful also to my seniors because they kept the faith and fought for the team.)

Jonna Perdido and Regina Jurado chipped in 12 points apiece as the España-crew improved to 9-1. 

Barbie Jamili had 20 points, while Rochelle Lalongisip had 14 points as the Lady Falcons went down to 2-7.

Earlier, NU inched closer to the Final Four as it made quick work of University of the East, 25-14, 25-14, 25-12.

Alyssa Solomon had 14 points, while Bella Belen added 13 as the Lady Bulldogs improved to 8-2 and secured at least a playoff berth for a Final Four slot.

Casiey Dongallo, meanwhile, was limited to six points as the Lady Red Warriors went down to 2-7.

—JKC, GMA Integrated News