Far Eastern University overcame a slow start, finding its rhythm in the next three sets to secure a 23-25, 25-15, 25-13, 25-10 victory over Adamson University in the UAAP Season 87 Women’s Volleyball Tournament on Saturday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay.
Capping off a grueling week of three matches, the Lady Tamaraws extended their winning streak to three, improving to a 4-2 record — good for solo third behind the unbeaten NU Lady Bulldogs and the 4-1 UST Golden Tigresses.
After dominating the second and third sets, FEU carried its momentum into the fourth, racing to a commanding 14-4 lead behind the efforts of Chenie Tagaod and Jean Asis.
From there, the Lady Tamaraws cruised to a comfortable win in just one hour and 46 minutes.
(C) UAAP Season 87 Media Team
“Happy naman kami sa nakitang performance ng mga players. Nagbubunga na ‘yung from heartbreaking na talo sa UP. Paunti-unti nakakabalik so naipakita na nila ‘yung FEU Lady Tamaraws talaga,” said FEU assistant coach Manolo Refugia.
Despite matching Adamson in attacks, FEU dominated in other areas, outclassing the Lady Falcons in blocking (12-1) and service aces (10-3). Adamson also struggled with errors, committing 32 compared to FEU’s 15.
“Nakakapagod ‘yung sunod-sunod na games, pero at the same time iniisip ng team kung ano nga ba ‘yung goal namin this season? ‘Yun talaga ang nangunguna,” said Asis, who contributed 14 points, including six attacks, five aces, and three blocks.
Gerzel Petallo delivered an all-around performance with 16 points, 15 excellent receptions, and five digs, while Congolese recruit Faida Bakanke added 13 points and seven digs.
Middle blocker Jazlyn Ellarina also stood out with nine points, anchored by five blocks — outperforming the entire Adamson squad in that department.
With their rough stretch behind them, the Lady Tamaraws aim to close out the first round on a four-game winning streak when they face De La Salle University next Saturday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
(C) UAAP Season 87 Media Team
Meanwhile, Adamson absorbed its second straight loss, dropping to 2-3 and settling into a tie for fifth place with the University of the Philippines.
Shaina Nitura led the Lady Falcons with 24 points but struggled with efficiency, converting just 23 of 72 spike attempts. She also recorded 13 receptions and nine digs.
Nigerian import Frances Mordi contributed 12 points, 17 receptions, and 11 digs in the losing effort.
Adamson will attempt to bounce back when it takes on defending champion National University on Wednesday at the same venue.
