The NU Bulldogs are back in the Finals for the third-straight season after sweeping the FEU Lady Tamaraws in the Final Four of the UAAP Season 86 women's volleyball tournament on Wednesday, May 8.
National University turned back Far Eastern University in straight sets, 25-13, 27-25, 25-15, to seal the last Finals slot in the UAAP Season 86 women's volleyball tournament at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Wednesday, May 8.
Despite losing their twice-to-beat advantage, the Lady Bulldogs showed strong resolve to still advance to the UAAP Finals, their third straight as they look to win a second title in three seasons.
Former Rookie-MVP Bella Belen had an excellent all-around game for NU with 21 points, built on 16 attacks and five service aces, along with 14 excellent digs and five excellent receptions.
In front of 13,054 spectators at the Big Dome, the Lady Bulldogs raced ahead with a dominant first set, limiting the Lady Tamaraws to just 13 points. NU even scored more service aces (5) than FEU's attacks (4) in the first frame.
In the second set, the Lady Tamaraws looked poised to even the game out after zooming to a 13-6 lead.
But the Lady Bulldogs slowly but surely climbed their way back and ultimately forced a thrilling extended set, which Belen and Alyssa Solomon sealed for the Jhocson-based squad with clutch hits.
Riding on that momentum, NU steered clear early in the third set, building a 9-3 lead which they only continued to expand throughout the frame.
Up 22-14, middle blocker Sheena Toring connected on a service ace before Chai Papa sent one of her attacks wide for match point. Vange Alinsug then sealed the win after an emphatic hit.
Toring contributed 13 points built on five points, six blocks, and two service aces. Alyssa Solomon and Erin Pangilinan, meanwhile, added nine markers apiece.
No Lady Tamaraw finished in double-digit scoring, with Chenie Tagaod only scoring nine points in the loss.
NU will take on no. 2 UST for the championship. The Golden Tigresses dethroned the De La Salle Lady Spikers last week.