By Ardyn Gonzales
The Far Eastern University Lady Tamaraws are off to a strong start after defeating last season’s runner-ups, University of Sto. Tomas Golden Tigresses, 25-19, 16-25, 25-14, 25-20, on the first day of the UAAP Season 87 women’s volleyball tournament at Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.
After losing the second set, FEU quickly regrouped in the third frame and capitalized on UST’s miscues to establish a huge 16-6 advantage. Jean Asis and Gerz Petallo’s offense came alive to win the set for a 2-1 lead.
In the fourth set, Angge Poyos and the Golden Tigresses refused to give up, protecting a small margin before FEU forced a 19-all deadlock.
Jaz Ellarina scored crucial consecutive points down the stretch, whose tall presence at the net forced UST to commit back-to-back attack errors, completing FEU’s massive win against the Golden Tigresses.
Faida Bakanke also displayed an improved performance, leading all scorers with 16 points including the team-high 14 attacks. Petallo was not far behind with 15 markers where she demonstrated strong net defense with five kill blocks.
Meanwhile, reigning Rookie of the Year Poyos scored 13 markers for the Golden Tigresses, supported by the 10 points of Reg Jurado and rookie Marga Altea.
However, it was the middle attackers of FEU who spelled the difference for the Lady Tamaraws, with Asis and Ellarina conniving for 20 points, while UST’s Pia Abbu and Blessing Unekwe only produced half with 10.
Featured image courtesy of UAAP
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