Undermanned UST eyes QF berth

A Shorthanded University of Santo Tomas squad seeks a quarterfinals berth when it tangles with San Sebastian College today in the Shakey’s V-League First Conference at the Filoil Flying V Arena in San Juan.

Game time is at 2 p.m. with the Tigresses playing without ace attackers Maru Banaticla and Judy Ann Caballejo, who are playing in Boracay for a beach volleyball tournament this weekend.

In their absence, UST coach Odjie Mamon is pinning his hopes on Aiza Maizo and Rhea Dimaculangan in the 2 p.m. Group A match.

“I believe Aiza and Rhea are in 60 to 70 percent in game shape,” he said. “I’ve already asked them to join our conditioning programs.”

The Tigresses are coming off a 25-23, 25-23, 25-20 victory over De La Salle Dasmariñas last Sunday.

But the Lady Stags are a formidable bunch led by veterans Jeng Bualee and Suzanne Roces.

Meanwhile, CESAFI champion University of San Carlos tries to stay alive in the quarterfinals race against Group B leader National University in the 4 p.m. clash.