By MARK REY MONTEJO
Far Eastern University displayed nerves of steel and held off National University, 22-25, 25-22, 13-25, 25-22, 15-13, to inch closer to its long awaited UAAP men’s volleyball title in the Season 87 finals at the Smart Araneta Coliseum Sunday, May 11.
Despite trailing in the first three sets, the Tamaraws remained composed with Zhydryx Saavedra and Amet Bituin showing the light, especially in the fifth where they delivered the killing blows that helped them overcome the Bulldogs’ last-ditch effort.
NU, though, had its chances to complete its comeback but was spoiled by its costly service errors.
FEU moved one victory away from snaring the title it last won in Season 74 or in 2012. Game 2 is set on Wednesday, May 14, at the Mall of Asia Arena.
“Adjustment siguro ‘yong tingin ko naging isa mga sa susi, tyaka we have less errors in the following sets,” said FEU head coach Orcullo.
“Talagang pinagusapan namin kung papano kami lalaban, talagang pinilit naming ilaban,” Saavedra added.
On the other hand, the five-peat seeking NU absorbed its first loss in the finals since Season 79 where it was swept by the once dominant Ateneo Blue Eagles.
Saavedra dazzled for the Tamaraws as he poured in 25 points built on 21 attacks, three blocks, and one ace, while Bituin also shone as he added 16 points
Rookie Mikko Espartero went superb defensively with 26 excellent receptions on top of 10 points for FEU, while Ariel Cacao orchestrated their offense after tallying 24 excellent sets.
Leo Ordiales had a 23-point performance which went for naught for NU. Jade Disquitado and Buds Buddin chipped in 17 and 12 points, respectively.
