Josh Ybañez's status uncertain as Gboy de Vega, UST navigate tough stretch ahead against UE

It was one forgettable Season 87 debut for the UST Golden Spikers. 

Not only that they lost against the FEU Tamaraws, but the España-based squad lost star spiker Josh Ybañez due to an apparent ankle injury.  

Now, UST needs to brace for the challenges ahead as the bounce-back seeking UE Red Warriors face last season’s runners-up in the men's volleyball tournament, February 22, Saturday at the FilOil EcoOil Centre, San Juan, Manila. 

Ybañez exited the game at the 22-18 mark of the fourth set after landing on teammate Trevor Valera’s foot off a backrow hit. 

The two-time MVP’s availability against UE remains uncertain for now with no timetable given on his return. 

Prior to that unfortunate incident, the reigning two-time MVP tallied 15 points. Trevor Valera ended up as the UST’s next best scorer with 11 markers. 

Now, the Growling Tigers will rely on mainstays Gboy de Vega and Jayrack de la Noche to pick up the load in addition to other key players JJ Macam, Alche Gupiteo, and promising rookie Al-Bukharie Sali. 

(With reports from Pao Ambat)

—

[Editor's note: This article was written by a member of the One Sports Digital with the help of AI, and then checked by the staff to ensure accuracy.]