THE UST Tiger Softbelles failed to find their offensive rhythm against the UP Fighting Maroons, falling 3-0 in the UAAP Season 87 softball tournament at the Rizal Memorial Baseball Stadium on Tuesday, March 11.
UST managed only three hits throughout the game while also squandering its scoring opportunities. UP starting pitcher Danica Aquino completed the shutout, allowing just three hits while striking out three.
On the mound, Tiger Softbelles Mary Jane Beronilla and Celine Chang struck out six batters but allowed six hits and three earned runs combined.
UST assistant coach Esmeralda Tayag said the Softbelles lacked confidence, resulting in their subpar offensive performance. The loss dropped UST to a 1-2 record, while UP rose to 3-1.
“Sabi ko sa kanila, dagdagan nila ng yabang, medyo nakukulangan ako sa confidence nila,” Tayag told the Varsitarian. “Kailangan, pagpasok mo palang sa field nandoon na ‘yong angas para mas madagdagan ‘yong kumpyansa.”
In the bottom of the second inning, Nickole de la Cruz put UP ahead early after an RBI-double from Martine Francisco, 1-0.
Francisco then doubled the lead in the same inning, crossing home plate on a wild pitch by UST starter Beronilla and a sacrifice fly from Maria Caoagdan, making it 2-0.
Beronilla found her groove and allowed no hits through the fifth inning before Celine Chang relieved her in the bottom of the sixth inning.
After consecutive singles in the sixth, UP added another run as pinch runner Laica Atlas reached home plate on a Jammin Rasco groundout, sealing the 3-0 victory.
The Softbelles attempted a late rally in the seventh inning as Jojielyn Lim reached third base with two outs. However, Helga Campos flied out to center field, ending the game.
“May mga nakakaapak (sa base) kaso hindi nasusundan. Nakalimang left on base rin tayo, kung mga ‘yon nasundutan ng hits, baka lumamang pa tayo sa kanila,” the coach said.
UST previously fell short against UP in last season’s Final Four, suffering a 3-2 walk-off loss.
The Tiger Softbelles will look to bounce back and finish the first round strong against the Ateneo Blue Eagles at the same venue later at 1 p.m.
