Dryx Saavedra and Martin Bugaoan linked up in the fifth set to push Far Eastern University over De La Salle University in a lengthy battle, 16-25, 25-21, 34-32, 20-25, 15-8, in the UAAP Season 86 Men’s Volleyball Tournament at the SMART Araneta Coliseum on Saturday.
Saavedra delivered three while Bugaoan had two in the Tamaraws’ 8-2 start in the deciding frame on their way to the hard-earned victory in two hours and 22 minutes.
Saavedra and Bugaoan finished with 20 points apiece for the 7-1 FEU, still tied with National University atop the standings at 7-1.
“Grabe yung ginawa ng La Salle, yung game na ‘yun nobody’s game kahit sinong manalo well-deserved,” said Tamaraws head coach Eddieson Orcullo. “Salamat sa La Salle na ganon yung ginawa nilang laban sa amin nakita namin kung hanggang saan yung capacity ng bawat isa sa amin.”
Vince Maglinao, who ended up with 19 points and 11 receptions, willed the Green Spikers to a fifth set, leading them early in the fourth en route to the 25-20 win.
La Salle slid down to 5-3, still at solo third and a game above Ateneo de Manila University, University of Santo Tomas, and Adamson University all at 4-4.
Jayjay Javelona top-scored for the Tamaraws with 21 points on 15 spikes, three blocks, and three aces, while Andrei Delicana, who nailed the game-clinching hit, added 13 points.
Ariel Cacao was also solid for the Tamaraws by tossing in 24 excellent sets.
FEU’s next game will be on April 4 against Ateneo at the SM Mall of Asia Arena at 12 p.m.
JM Ronquillo dropped 20 points for La Salle, which will be going up against University of the Philippines on April 4 as well at 10 a.m.
Noel Kampton supplied 19 points while Billie Anima had 13.
