Far Eastern University shook off some of last year’s bitter memories, overpowering National University, 22-25, 25-21, 25-17, 25-20, in their Finals rematch in the UAAP Season 88 Collegiate Men’s Volleyball Tournament at the SM Mall of Asia Arena on Saturday.
The Tamaraws relied on spectacular performances from their middle blockers, combined with steady contributions from their spikers, to topple the defending five-time champions in four sets after one hour and 45 minutes.
Lirick Mendoza was efficient in his attacks, going 13-of-18 while adding three blocks and one ace for 17 points. Congo’s Doula Ndongala delivered 14 points on 12 spikes, one block, and one ace.
(C) UAAP Season 88 Media Team
“‘Yung game, talagang pinagpreparahan namin bawat isa doon sa match-up ng tao, sa kung sino dapat ang bigyan ng serving target, kung paano umatake ang bawat isa,” said head coach Eddieson Orcullo, as FEU improved to a league-best 3-0 record.
“Talagang pinagtrabahuhan, pinag-isipan tapos na-execute naman ng tama kaya maganda rin ‘yung result.”
The Tamaraws had to fend off a fiery Bulldogs’ rally in the fourth set to secure the victory.
Down by eight late in the fourth, 11-19, NU scored five unanswered points to cut the deficit to three, 16-19, then again trailed by the same margin at 19-22.
Dryx Saavedra and Mendoza closed out the match for FEU, capped by Mendoza’s over-received ball that dropped into an unguarded spot on NU’s side for the final point.
“Talagang pinaghandaan namin itong game na ito kasi last year, mas masakit pa ‘yun sa nangyari nung Season 86 sa UST kaya grabe ‘yung willingness sa buong team na kailangan maipanalo namin ito,” said Mendoza, recalling FEU’s losses in Games 2 and 3 of last season’s Finals, which forced them to settle for silver.
Sophomore Amet Bituin also impressed with 16 points and eight excellent receptions, while Saavedra contributed 15 points.
Ariel Cacao distributed 25 excellent sets, helping the Tamaraws maintain an edge in attacks, 59-49, with four players reaching double digits.
FEU will aim to stay perfect when they face Adamson University on March 1 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
(C) UAAP Season 88 Media Team
Michaelo Buddin led the Bulldogs with 21 points on 17 spikes, three aces, and a block, along with eight receptions and seven digs.
Leo Ordiales added 15 points, while Jade Disquitado contributed 13 points and 14 receptions.
NU, now 2-1, will look to bounce back next Saturday against University of the Philippines at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion.
