FAR Eastern University (FEU) snapped out of an 11-game losing streak dating back to last season via a 25-16, 23-25, 25-17, 26-24 win over University of the Philippines (UP) in Day 2 of University Athletic Association of the Philippines Season 85 women’s volleyball action at the Mall of Asia Arena Sunday.
“We were able to let go, this win will separate us from the ghost of last season,” FEU head coach Tina Salak said. “This one is a big win for us.”
The Tamaraws set the tone for FEU’s amazing Sunday by beating the UP Fighting Maroons, 25-22, 25-23, 25-15, in men’s action earlier in the day.
Zhydryx Saavedera had 15 points on 14 attacks in his seniors debut, while Martin Bugaoan added 11 points with three blocks for the Tamaraws.
The Lady Tamaraws had to dig deep to dispose of the Lady Maroons.
They lost the second set and had their backs against the wall in the fourth set when the Fighting Maroons raced to a 12-6 lead.
But FEU clawed back for a 22-19 and the rest of the match went tight.
Euri Eslapor and Alyssa Bertolano put UP at set point, 24-23, with Bertalono delivering a lethal crosscourt kill.
But FEU stood its ground with Alyzza Devosora sending a down-the-line kill for deuce and attacked from the backrow attack for match point.
The Lady Tamaraws didn’t have to sweat further as UP’s Stephanie Bustrillo sent her attack long to give FEU its first since May 10, 2022.
“It’s a good start for the team, the program and the community,” said Salak, a Lady Tamaraw legend.
Jovelyn Fernandez topscored for the Tamaraws with 18 points while Chenie Tagaod chipped in 13 points.
Devosora finished with 12 points on six attacks with three blocks, three aces, 12 digs, and four excellent receptions.
Bertolano posted a triple-double of 14 points, 14 digs and 11 excellent receptions for the Fighting Maroons, who also got 13 points from Nina Ytang off five blocks.
Jewel Encarnacion and Stephanie Bustrillo also produced 12 points apiece for UP with Encarnacion posting 12 excellent receptions.
Mark Calado got 10 points while Jefferson Abuniawan had eight points, half coming off service aces, for the Tamaraws.
Angelo Lagando was a one-man show for the Fighting Maroons with 17 points on 15 spikes and two block kills. Team captain Louis Gamban was limited to just seven points.