Far Eastern University (FEU) kept its perfect record intact, overcoming a six-point deficit in the third set to sweep University of Santo Tomas (UST) 26-24, 25-23, 25-19 in the UAAP Season 87 men’s volleyball tournament on Sunday at the Mall of Asia Arena.
With Mikko Espartero, Ariel Cacao, and Dryx Saavedra leading the charge, the Tamaraws extended their winning streak to 8-0, while UST suffered its third straight loss, dropping to 4-4 and slipping to fifth place. FEU also reaffirmed its dominance over the Golden Spikers, having defeated them in their season opener.
Tamaraws Rally to Seal the Sweep
UST had a strong start in the third set, building an 8-2 lead, but FEU stormed back with a 14-6 run, highlighted by Saavedra’s crosscourt hit and captain Jelord Talisayan’s backrow attack, to take control at 16-14. The Tamaraws never looked back, sealing the win with key plays from Doula Ndongala, Saavedra, and Espartero.
FEU also showed composure in the second set, surviving a late UST rally at 23-22 before Espartero and Talisayan delivered clutch attacks. In the opening set, the Tamaraws erased a 21-24 deficit with a 5-0 run to snatch the lead.
FEU coach Eddieson Orcullo stressed the importance of staying focused:
“Huwag lang dapat kami makuntento tsaka mag-relax… hanggang hindi natatapos yung match o set, hindi dapat kami tumigil.”
Key Performances
Espartero: 18 points (17 attacks, 1 block), 7 excellent receptions
Saavedra: 13 points (13 attacks)
Lirick Mendoza: 8 points (5 attacks, 3 blocks)
Cacao: 28 excellent sets
Vennie Ceballos: 12 excellent receptions, 8 excellent digs
For UST, Josh Ybanez led with 15 points, 10 receptions, and 3 digs, while Jayrack dela Noche added 12 points. Star rookie JJ Macam was limited to just 3 points on a 3-of-15 attack efficiency.
FEU aims for its ninth straight win against winless University of the East on March 26, while UST looks to end its losing streak against La Salle on March 29 at Araneta Coliseum.
