By Jean Malanum
MANILA – Far Eastern University defeated University of the East, 25-16, 25-23, 25-19, Wednesday to secure its fifth straight win in the UAAP Season 87 men’s volleyball tournament at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.
Mikko Espartero had eight points and six digs, while middle blocker Lirick Mendoza chipped in eight points on five attacks and three blocks as the Tamaraws duplicated their 5-0 start in Season 81 (2019).
“Actually, we just keep going. We don’t stop. I think we’ve already overcome the struggles, especially with those who got sick. From our perspective, a combined team effort is a huge factor because, even with a 5-0 record, we’re still pushing to improve our performance in the next games,” said assistant coach Rene Dulay during the post-game interview while head coach Eddieson Orcullo is still recovering from an Achilles tear surgery.
Skipper Jelord Talisayan, Dryx Saavedra, and Congolese middle blocker Doula Ndongala delivered the points to give FEU an 18-13 advantage in the third set.
UE rallied to within 19-20 but FEU banked on Amet Bituin and Ariel Cacao to wrap up the match in one hour and 22 minutes.
Talisayan finished with seven points on six attacks and one block to go with eight receptions; Saavedra added seven points on five attacks and two blocks; and Ndongala contributed seven points on four blocks and three attacks. Vennie Ceballos had 12 receptions while Benny Martinez made 10 excellent sets and an ace.
“What we do is constantly remind them that we will give everyone a chance to contribute as much as possible. It shouldn’t be a one-man show—the points should be well-distributed. We were able to execute that, which is why we won the game. Everyone delivered, and that’s why the team is getting better and continuing to improve,” said Dulay.
John Steve Aligaynon led the Red Warriors (0-5) with 13 points followed by Raquim Aceron with 11 points and 15 excellent receptions, while Roy Gabriel Piojo added nine points.
FEU will next face Adamson University while UE will battle De La Salle University on Saturday. (PNA)
