With a Final Four slot at stake this early, the Far Eastern University Tamaraws kept the University of Santo Tomas Tiger Spikers struggling after a convincing four-set win, 25-15, 26-28, 25-22, 25-14, in the UAAP Season 81 Men’s Volleyball tournament at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.
FEU clinched at least a playoff for a Final Four spot, improving their record to 8-1. On the other hand, UST spiraled to sixth place with a 3-6 card.
Tamaraws head coach Rey Diaz was glad to see his team recover from their first loss of the season.
“Medyo naging mahirap sa team, pero naging maganda din kasi tumaas ‘yung sense of urgency ng players and coaches,” said Diaz.
“Grabe ‘yung pagtrabaho sa training kasi alam ng lahat ‘yung goal namin na makakuha ng championship. Para makuha ‘yun, every game kailangan focused kami,” he added.
Middle blocker JP Bugaoan led FEU’s assault with a game-high 18 points off 14 attacks, three blocks, and an ace. Jude Garcia added 17 points from 13 attacks and four blocks.
Joshua Umandal topped the Tiger Spikers with 17 points, while Jayvee Sumagaysay and Hernel Corda each managed 10 points.
FEU will face the Adamson University (5-4), while UST take on the University of the Philippines (1-8) on Wednesday at the FilOil Flying V Centre.
The Scores
FEU (3) – Bugaoan 18, Garcia 17, Solis 11, Quiel 8, Paler 5, Suarez 2, De Asis 1, Calado 0, Salabsab 0, Silang 0, Barrica (L)
UST (1) – Umandal 17, Corda 10, Sumagaysay 10, Casillan 9, Requinton 9, Buro 1, Casillan 0, Tajanlangit 0, Mendiolla (L), Sawal (L)
