Far Eastern University and Ateneo de Manila University both flexed their dominance in the 2025 Shakey’s Super League Preseason Unity Cup Saturday at the Playtime FilOil Centre in San Juan, each posting straight-set victories to stake early claims atop their respective pools.
Lady Tamaraws powered past the Arellano University Lady Chiefs, 25-22, 25-17, 25-16, for their second consecutive win and a step closer to the next round.
Down by six in the third set, Congolese standout Faida Bakanke anchored a blistering scoring run, finishing with a game-high 15 points, including eight in the decisive frame.
“We had a slow start and Ate Tin (Ubaldo) told us we should move and give our best. She told us to follow the instructions our coaches gave us on how to spike and do everything,” said Bakanke.
Gerzel Petallo added seven points, while Mitzi Panangin had five. Cla Loresco, Ia David, and Alyzza Devosora chipped in four apiece to close out the match.
Arellano absorbed its first loss after a five-set victory over Jose Rizal University last week.
Karylle Melendrez led the Lady Chiefs with 12 points, while Yen Sabanal and Gae Segovia contributed five markers each.
FEU now eyes a complete sweep of the group stage, with a marquee clash against National Invitationals Cebu Leg champion Adamson University scheduled for October 3 at the Paco Arena.
(C) SSL
Meanwhile, Ateneo de Manila University dominated University of Perpetual Help System DALTA, 25-16, 26-24, 25-17, to claim solo leadership in Pool D.
Faye Nisperos spearheaded the Blue Eagles’ performance with 13 points, including 12 kills.
Despite a tense second set that extended to 24-24, Ateneo regained control with a timely overcooked reception by Alana Tan-Chi. That set up Dona Mae De Leon to smash the finishing blow.
Zey Pacia contributed eight points, Belle Chuatico and De Leon seven each, while Gena Hora and May Tsunashima added six markers apiece.
“Naniwala lang kami sa selves namin and sa teammates namin. Tiwala lang ang ginawa na namin,” said Nisperos.
“Kapag naniwala kami sa sarili namin, malalaro namin yung laro namin.”
The Lady Altas fell to a 1-1 record, with Shaila Omipon and Cyrille Alemeniana leading their squad with six points apiece.
Both matches were part of the centerpiece tournament of the league, backed by Shakey’s Pizza Parlor, Peri-Peri Charcoal Chicken, Potato Corner, and R and B Milk Tea.
Games in the SSL Preseason Unity Cup are available live and on demand via PusoP.com and Solar Sports.
