Five Tamaraws scored in double digits for the FEU-DN Steel Ultras against the Chichi DHTSI Brotherhood Titans in the 2024 Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference.
The FEU-DN Steel Ultras secured their first win in the 2024 Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference, defeating the Chichi DHTSI Brotherhood Titans in four sets, 25-16, 25-22, 25-27, 25-19, at the Ynares Sports Arena on Friday.
Mikko Espartero shone as the Player of the Game, contributing 13 points, 9 attacks, 3 blocks, and an ace to help FEU-DN Steel take control of the match.
The victory follows the Tamaraws’ championship triumph in the V-League Collegiate Challenge finals against De La Salle University Green Spikers.
"Actually kung makikita yung galaw ng bawat isa ang bigay dahil nasa loading period kami ulit. Nag-deload kami nung sa Finals ng V-League tapos ngayon nagloloading kami kaya medyo sore ‘yung katawan," said FEU head coach Eddieson Orcullo.
Despite a third-set slip where FEU’s errors allowed Chichi to capitalize and take the set, the Tamaraws bounced back with an 8-3 start in the fourth.
"Ang habol talaga namin dito ay ‘yung experience na makukuha pero well kung mabigyan ng pagkakataon makasama sa top four mas maganda di ba? Kaya naman kami nandito para baunin ‘yung experience na makukuha dito sa Spikers’ Turf," he added.
FEU had five players score in double digits, including Jelord Talisayan with 14 points, Espartero with 13, Dryx Saavedra and Lirick Mendoza with 12 points each, plus Chad Absin with 11 points in only two sets.
Vennie Ceballos registered a double-double with 15 excellent receptions and 10 digs.
FEU’s next matchup is against D’Navigators Iloilo.
Chichi, led by Christian Alicante’s 15 points, prepares for a daunting contest against the 2024 Open Conference champions, Cignal HD Spikers on Tuesday at the Santa Rosa Sports Complex in Laguna.
[Editor's note: This article was generated by a member of the One Sports Digital team using AI, and then checked by the staff to ensure accuracy.]