MANILA — Far Eastern University surged into a tie for second place after surviving a five-set war against defending powerhouse National University, 25-23, 25-23, 21-25, 20-25, 22-20, in a gripping UAAP Season 88 women’s volleyball showdown at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
The Lady Tamaraws leaned on composure and clutch execution to halt NU’s late comeback and improve to a 6-3 record, matching the Lady Bulldogs in the standings in what could prove pivotal in the race for Final Four positioning.
Faida Bakanke spearheaded FEU’s attack with 22 points, while Lovely Lopez and Alyssa Devosora delivered 19 and 16 markers, respectively, in a balanced offensive effort that kept NU on its heels for most of the match.
FEU dictated the tempo early, grinding out back-to-back tight set wins behind steady play in crunch moments. But NU responded like a champion, dominating the third and fourth frames to force a deciding set and shift momentum.
The fifth set turned into a nerve-wracking duel, with both teams exchanging blows in an extended battle that stretched beyond regulation. FEU ultimately capitalized on NU’s miscues and held its nerve in the closing stretch to seal the 22-20 escape.
Sam Cantada led the Lady Bulldogs with 20 points, while Evangeline Alinsug added 19. Arah Panique, Cham Maaya, and Alexa Mata chipped in 16, 11, and 10 points, respectively, in NU’s failed comeback bid.
In the earlier match, the University of the Philippines snapped a four-game skid with a commanding 25-21, 25-15, 25-14 sweep of the University of the East.
Kianne Olango paced the Fighting Maroons with 18 points, while Niña Ytang and Jelai Gajero contributed 14 and 11, respectively, as UP improved to a 4-6 slate.
The victory served as a morale boost for UP, which has struggled since losing top scorer Casiey Dongallo to a season-ending ACL injury.
UE, meanwhile, remained winless after nine games despite Khy Cepada’s all-around effort of 12 points, 17 excellent receptions, and 10 digs./PN
