Tina Salak says Lady Tamaraws exceeded expectations after surviving five-setter vs UE

The Far Eastern University Lady Tamaraws notched their third win in six games after surviving a tough five-setter against the University of the East Lady Red Warriors, 25-19, 18-25, 25-12 22-25, 15-5.

"Sobrang happy na first round pa lang, I'll be honest, na-exceed 'yung expectations," Coach Tina Salak told the media.

For Chenie Tagaod, who was hailed the Player of the Game on Wednesday, it revived playoff hopes for the storied volleyball program.

"Alam mo 'yung pressure sa'min, andun 'yung chance na pwede kami ulit makapasok sa Final Four, so hindi namin siya bibitawan," she said after the match.

The winless UE saw an opening in the second frame to snatch just their second set win in Season 85 and even forced a fifth set for the first time this year.

But the Tamaraws found their groove in the final frame, with Tagaod scoring 23 and Jovelyn Fernandez pitching in 22.

Tagaod had admitted feeling disappointment after only registering single digits in previous matches—notably just 2 points against the University of Sto. Tomas Golden Tigresses, 8 markers against the Ateneo Blue Eagles, and 9 against the Adamson Lady Falcons.

She said someone told her this advice in dealing with setbacks, "May kumausap sa 'kin, 'Wag mo alalahanin 'yung sinasabi ng ibang tao. Maglaro ka lang nung sa'yo. Yung laro mo, ilabas mo lang. Magtiwala ka lang sa sarili mo.'"

And as simple as that sounds, those were just the right words for Tagaod to hear. She made 23 points coming off 18 attacks, 3 blocks, and 2 aces, along with 8 excellent receptions to survive UE.

Coach Tina Salak couldn't be any happier. And she wants more.

"Since nandito na kami, 'di kami pwede huminto," she said. "Since naka-three wins naman, why not exceed pa namin?"

"Baka pwede pa lagyan ng konting spice?" Salak added, laughing.

That wish will be granted as FEU will wrap up the first round with a match against defending champions National University Lady Bulldogs on March 18, Saturday, at 3 p.m.

(With reports from Rainier Mira, One Sports Digital)