With the Tamaraws closely trailing at 22-all, the Golden Spikers secured three consecutive points: a backrow kill from Josh Ybañez, a service ace from Ichi Yamanaka, and a block from Paul Colinares, effectively ending the nearly two-hour contest.
"Stick to the system, remain patient, and stay disciplined," acting head coach Benjamin Mape conveyed what head coach Odjie Mamon had instructed the team before departing for national squad duties in China.
"Stay with the system pa rin and at the same time ensayo pa rin para sa Game 2. Hindi pa tapos ang laban," he added.
GBoy De Vega epitomized UST's performance as the outside hitter regained composure, rectifying his own mistakes and contributing 18 points, with 14 from successful attacks and four from crucial blocks. Ybañez led with 21 points, including the pivotal spike in the closing moments.
This marks the Golden Spikers' seventh consecutive victory.
Dryx Saavedra matched Ybañez's total with 21 points, all of which came from successful attacks, to keep the Tamaraws in the contest, while Andrei Delicana added 15 points in their valiant effort.
UST and Ateneo go for the clincher on Friday.
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