Following a shocking five-set defeat last Wednesday at the hands of Adamson, the Far Eastern University Tamaraws copped their ninth win of the UAAP Season 81 Men’s Volleyball tournament, after handling the University of the East Red Warriors, 25-18, 25-19, 25-12, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
FEU’s 9-2 record gives them a two-game lead over Adamson and Ateneo, both at 7-4, for the second seed and a twice-to-beat advantage.
FEU head coach Rey Diaz admitted that his team’s morale was not too negatively affected by their loss to the Soaring Falcons.
“Hindi naman sobrang naapektuhan ‘yung players ko. Ganoon talaga; may natatalo talaga. Mas naging motivated lang sila na tignan ‘yung mga naging lapses namin and ayusin sa training,” said Diaz.
“Kita naman sa game kanina na mas ganada sila maglaro, kasi alam nila na importante sa amin na mag-ipon pa ng panalo para makaabot sa gusto naming puntahan,” he added.
Jude Garcia topped the Tamaraws with 11 points off eight attacks, two blocks, and an ace. Middle blocker JP Bugaoan added 10 markers.
Middle blockers Noel Alba and Lloyd Josafat led the also-ran Red Warriors with six points apiece.
FEU take on the University of the Philippines (1-10) on Sunday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena. Meanwhile, UE (2-9) face the Adamson University on Wednesday at the FilOil Flying V Centre.
The Scores
FEU (3) – Garcia 11, Bugaoan 10 Paler 8, Quiel 8, Caladao 5, Solis 5, Salabsab 3, Suarez 2, De Asis 1, Silang 1, Barrica (L), Lorenzo (L)
UE (0) – Alba 6, Josafat 6, Abalon 4, Inoferio 4, Ortega 4, Adriano 3, Bonoan 3, Imperial 0, Reyes 0, Medina (L)
