Pasay City, Philippines - The University of Santo Tomas (UST) extended its season by defeating top-seeded Far Eastern University (FEU) in straight sets, 25-23, 25-19, 28-26, during the UAAP Season 86 men's volleyball semifinals at the Mall of Asia Arena on Sunday. The win forces a do-or-die match in the quest for a finals slot.
According to Philippines News Agency, this victory marked a significant turnaround for UST, known as the Golden Spikers, who had been defeated by FEU, the Tamaraws, in both of their elimination round matchups. Josh Ybañez led UST with 15 points, 13 receptions, and six digs. UST, historically dominant with four consecutive championships from Seasons 70 to 73, will face FEU once more to decide who advances to the finals.
In related events, the women's volleyball team of UST will also play a crucial game, attempting to secure the first finals berth by facing fourth-ranked De La Salle University. This match is scheduled for 6 p.m. at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City. On the same day, the second-seeded National University men’s team will face La Salle in their semifinal matchup, with additional matches including UST-FEU and NU-FEU in both men's and women's divisions.