The Far Eastern University Tamaraws drew first blood in their four-set win against the National University Bulldogs in the semifinals of the V-League Men’s Collegiate Challenge
The Far Eastern University Tamaraws overcame a third-set slip to defeat an undermanned National University team, 25-23, 25-20, 24-26, 25-16, in the semifinals of the V-League Men’s Collegiate Challenge at Philsports Arena on Wednesday, September 18.
With the win, FEU takes a 1-0 lead in the best-of-three series and is in position to secure a spot in the finals.
Despite errors in the third set that extended the match, FEU captain Jelord Talisayan delivered a key spike to close out the game. Talisayan led the Tamaraws with 21 points, including 20 attack points,
Opposite Hiiter Dryx Saavedra added 14 points on 14 attacks, while Setter Benny Martinez tallied 20 excellent sets.
FEU head coach Edison Orcullo credited his team's ability to recover and stay composed. After losing the third set, the Tamaraws dominated the fourth, pulling away to secure the victory.
"Bumalik naman 'yung composure nung mga players," Orcullo said, highlighting the importance of their strong finish.
The Tamaraws capitalized on NU’s errors in the second set, taking a 2-0 lead before the Bulldogs responded with strong net defense to take the third. However, NU’s rally was short-lived as FEU regrouped in the fourth set, securing the win and putting themselves in a favorable position heading into Game 2 on Sunday.
NU was without key players, including head coach Dante Alinsunurin and several starters, who are training with the national team in Italy.
Despite the absence of these key figures, Jan Abanilla led NU with 16 points, while Mac Bandola and Leo Aringo contributed 15 and 11 points, respectively.