Josh Ybañez eyes quick recovery as UST seeks to end 1st round on high note

MANILA, Philippines — UST ace spiker Josh Ybañez made his return to UAAP Season 87 men's volleyball action against Ateneo on Sunday at the Mall of Asia Arena after being sidelined for three weeks following his ankle injury in UST's opening day loss to FEU, 25-20, 22-25, 16-25, 20-25, on February 15.

The reigning MVP played limited minutes as he saw action from second to fourth sets off the bench, mostly used as a service specialist.

Ybañez, however, could not make a triumphant return as the Golden Tigers fell to the Blue Eagles, 20-25, 22-25, 25-22, 21-25, and their four-game win run came to an end.

"I'm happy because I was able to get back into the game, but we lost. I think it's a sign that we still have a lot to improve and focus on in training. We'll give credit to Ateneo, they played really well," said Ybañez, who went scoreless against the Blue Eagles.

Ybañez seeks to get back to his old explosive spiking ways as UST, sporting a 4-2 record, seeks to end first round on a high note against defending champ NU on March 16.

"Right now, we're just taking it one step at a time. Personally, I'm still getting back into shape. I just started jumping again a little yesterday, and I'll keep doing my best as long as I can," said Ybañez.

"My main goal is to stay healthy and recover quickly, so when Coach puts me in the next game, I can contribute."

As for UST's loss, Ybañez said that the Golden Spikers didn't have their usual enjoyment, focusing too much to the point that they lost.

"Earlier, I think we forgot to enjoy the game. In our last four matches, everything felt so easy; everyone was moving well and playing great," said Ybañez.

"Today, it seemed like things turned around. Our goal was to have a strong serve and good passes, but instead, Ateneo's confidence grew when we lost our serves. We were too focused and forgot to enjoy the game."