The retooled UST Junior Golden Tigresses opened their 2026 Shakey’s Super League National Invitationals campaign with a commanding 25-16, 25-12 sweep of the Arellano Baby Chiefs on Saturday, July 11, at the Playtime FilOil Arena.
UST entered the tournament after overhauling its roster during the offseason, adding 17 recruits to bolster its lineup ahead of UAAP Season 89.
The Junior Golden Tigresses controlled the offensive battle, finishing with 26 attack points compared with just eight for the Baby Chiefs.
Arellano also struggled with unforced errors, committing 17 against UST’s 11.
UST seized control early in the opening set, racing to a 16-6 advantage behind the attacks of Ciarra Calfoforo and Jyrah Romais. The Junior Golden Tigresses also took advantage of Arellano’s nine errors to secure the set, 25-16.
The España-based squad carried its momentum into the second frame, opening with a 7-1 run fueled by three service aces each from Andreaj Tan Chun Bing and Jyrah Romais.
Cass Paralejas tried to spark Arellano with four late attacks, but a service error handed UST the 25-12 victory.
Tan Chun Bing directed UST’s offense with 11 excellent sets while adding three service aces.
The Junior Golden Tigresses will next take on California-based Perfect Set Dreammakers on Monday, July 13, at the same venue. Charles Martin A. Manalang
