4 May 2019
Ardyn Gonzales
The Far Eastern University Tamaraws finally claimed the elusive Finals berth after ousting the Ateneo de Manila University Blue Eagles in four sets, 21-25, 25-23, 25-22, 25-22, in the UAAP Season 81 men’s volleyball tournament, Saturday at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.
After losing the opening set, FEU recharged in the succeeding sets to finalize their entry in the championship round. The Tamaraws capitalized on the unforced errors committed by Ateneo – particularly in the service line – as both the second and third frames ended by the Blue Eagles’ own errors.
It was all FEU in the fourth set with a huge 15-9 lead, but they faced a last stand from Ateneo as the lead was trimmed down to two, 20-18. However, the Tamaraws wasted no time as a running hit from Jude Garcia sealed the huge win for FEU in the semi-finals.
Jude Garcia and JP Bugaoan led the charge with 14 and 13 markers, respectively, while team captin Richard Solis contributed with 12 points. It was a much-awaited finals appearance for the Tamaraws who last stepped in the championship match back in Season 75.
Graduating seniors Tony Koyfman topscored for Ateneo with 21 points, while Jan Rivera finished with 15 points for his last UAAP game. Also-graduating Manuel Sumanguid showcased his prowess in defense with 15 excellent digs and 19 excellent receptions.
FEU will face either defending champion NU or Adamson in the best-of-three Finals.
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