By MARK REY MONTEJO
University of the Philippines displayed steely nerves and stunned Far Eastern University, 23-25, 25-23, 25-17, 25-23, for its second consecutive win in the UAAP Season 87 women’s volleyball at the FilOil EcoOil Centre in San Juan City Wednesday evening, Feb. 19.
The Fighting Maroons recovered from a slugging start and delivered big hits in the next three frames to remain unbeaten in the early stretch of the volleyball tournament.
Niña Ytang and Joan Monares sparked the State U’s spirited run in the fourth set where they came back from a 7-14 deficit to turn the tide and seal the victory.
Monares carried UP’s offensive load, finishing with 19 points built on 17 spikes and two aces while Kianne Olango and Ytang backed her up with 17 and 15,points, respectively. Also starring were Irah Jaboneta, who pumped in 11 points with seven excellent digs and 12 receptions.
Clarisse Loresco and Chenie Tagaod put up 11 and 10 points while Jazlyn Ellarina and Faida Bakanke had eight points each in a losing effort for FEU (1-1).
Earlier in the men’s division, FEU dominated UP, 25-21, 25-16, 25-18, to clinch its second victory in as many outings.
Zhydryx Saavedra (13) and Mikko Espartero (10) led the Tamaraws in the lopsided match.
The Maroons, meanwhile, dropped to 1-1.
