The squad from Espanya is not fazed despite a major challenge heading into the Final Four.
Statistically speaking, the University of Santo Tomas Golden Tigresses are still alive for the twice-to-beat advantage in the UAAP Season 85 women's volleyball tournament. That's despite their disappointing loss to the defending champions National University Lady Bulldogs on Wednesday.
But coach Kungfu Reyes kept it real when asked if he's still hoping for the semifinals incentive.
"Malabo pa sa sabaw ng pusit," Reyes told media members after the game.
The chances are dim indeed.
The easiest path for the Golden Tigresses for a twice-to-beat advantage is if both NU and Adamson University Lady Falcons suffer losses in their final matches. Even then, it's not final, as UST will still have to win the tiebreaker game against NU. And before their odds kick in, they will also have to win their own remaining game against the University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons.
"Kung ako si National University, papatalo ka pa ba? Ganun din si Adamson," Reyes pointed out.
Instead of thinking about the probability of the Final Four advantage, and clinging to what could be a false hope, the Tigresses are already moving on.
"Wala na sa kamay namin 'yung kapalaran namin. Kung magko-concentrate pa kami doon, dagdag baggage pa sa amin."
The road to the finals will be twice as hard for UST, yet there are no indications of doubt for Reyes about their identity and capability. Maybe that confidence can be traced to the fact that the Golden Tigresses have already proven that they can beat the favorites De La Salle University Lady Spikers and the Lady Bulldogs this season.
"Kahit sinong kalabanin namin kailangan naming mag-prepare. Alam naman ng mga player kung anong mayroon kami. Hindi naman kami basta-basta nagba-backdown. To the last point, ilalaban namin 'yan."