Far Eastern University overcame the tough challenge of the University of the Philippines in four sets, 25-20, 27-29, 25-21, 25-21, in the UAAP Season 86 Women’s Volleyball Tournament at the Philsports Arena in Pasig, Saturday.
The Lady Tamaraws extended their winning streak to five games and improved to 9-4 overall, keeping their chance of a twice-to-beat edge come the Final Four alive.
FEU hopes that only one from the National University, De La Salle University, and University of Santo Tomas get a win from their remaining matches as all are at 10-2 to gain a playoff for the Final Four incentive.
“Satisfied and happy kasi nakuha namin yung panalo,” said Lady Tamaraws head coach Manolo Refugia.
“Nakaka-boost talaga ng morale yung nanalo kami against sa UST so nag level up yung mindset namin, so yung preparation namin nagiging maganda,” the youthful head coach furthered.
With FEU ahead 20-17 in the fourth set, UP made a run of three straight points care of Jewel Encarnacion and Steph Bustrillo to even the scoreline at 20.
However, the Lady Tamaraws retaliated with a 5-1 finisher with Mitzi Panangin and Chenie Tagaod combining for the win in two hours and 14 minutes.
Opposite hitter Faida Bakanke’s steady play in FEU’s winning run continued, making 19 points on 16 attacks, two blocks, and a service ace.
Tagaod backed the Congo lefty spiker with 13 points and 11 excellent receptions while Panangin, Alyzza Devosora, and Jean Asis all provided nine points apiece.
The Lady Tamaraws’ final game of the elimination round will be against NU on Wednesday at the SMART Araneta Coliseum.
Bustrillo led the way for UP with 16 points, while Niña Ytang posted 15 points on 11 spikes, two blocks, and two aces.
Encarnacion logged 13 points and 11 receptions in three sets of action while Irah Jaboneta chipped in 10 points, 11 receptions, and six digs.
The Fighting Maroons, who will cap their campaign next Saturday against the University of the East, have yet to win in the second round, sliding down to 1-12 at rock bottom.