Popoy Colinares took charge and sparkled for University of Santo Tomas as it whipped De La Salle, 25-21, 25-20, 25-16, in the UAAP Season 87 men’s volleyball Wednesday, Feb. 26, at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.

Colinares stepped up in the absence of injured two-time UAAP MVP Josh Ybañez and fired 17 points built on 11 kills, five blocks and one ace to lead the Golden Spikers to their second straight win in three games.

The win also marked UST’s first victory over La Salle since April 2023.

UST coach Odjie Mamon lauded his stalwarts for rising to the challenge, adding that they had fun during practice which translated into their game.

“The result speaks for itself when it comes to our depth,” Mamon said.

“Bukod don, yung preparation din namin. So kahapon, yung mood nila maganda. Hanggang ngayon, nai-extend nila yung good vibes sa court at magaan sila maglaro,” he added.

The España-based crew also had offensive support from Jau De La Noche and Jan Macam, who had 12 and 10 points, respectively, while Dux Yambao had 19 excellent sets with one block and one ace.

La Salle, however, struggled offensively as no player scored in twin digits with Eric Layug, Noel Kampton, Michael Fortuna and Chris Hernandez managing six points apiece.

The Green Spikers to 1-2.

Meanwhile, Adamson snapped its two-game slide after downing University of the East, 27-29, 25-23, 25-20, 25-17.

Jude Aguilar and Mark Coguimbal conspired for 33 points to ignite the Soaring Falcons and bring them into the winning column. Ronn Domingo also played a key role with 19 excellent sets.

With their triumph, Adamson ended its eight-game losing streak from last season, giving Raffy Mosuela his first victory as Falcons coach.

John Aligayon delivered 23 points with six excellent digs while Rayven Sison added 17 -- which all went down the drain as the Red Warriors endured their third loss in as many outings.