By Andrei M. Barrantes

Far Eastern University (FEU) head coach Ed Orcullo earned his first victory as the Tamaraws swiftly defeated University of the Philippines (UP) Fighting Maroons, 25-23, 25-17, 25-15, in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) Season 86 men’s volleyball tourney today, February 18, at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.

“Talagang pinaghandaan namin ‘yung game. So ‘yung first game siguro maraming adjustments pero nakukuha naman (We really prepared for this game. Though there may be many adjustments, we were able to execute),” he said in a post-game interview.

The green-and-gold squad held their composure despite tallying 25 total errors to UP’s 20.

Coach Ed briefly spoke on the team’s excess adjustments that led to their errors.

“‘Yung miscommunication kasi pumapasok kapag ‘yung isang player napunta sa hindi niya specific area… Pero sa ganon lagi natin sinasabi na mag-stick lang tayo sa kung saan ang areas of responsibility natin (Miscommunication happen when a player goes to areas he’s not supposed to be in… But in those instances we always remind them to stick to their areas of responsibility),” he added

Despite the errors, the Morayta spikers cruised through with their potent scoring, led by Player of the Game Dryx Saavedra and his 16 points in 15 attacks.

Martin Bugaoan and Jelord Talisayan both chipped in 11 markers and four combined service aces, while JJ Javelona powered seven points and two blocks.

Tamaraw rookie Lirick Mendoza also chipped in 3 blocks while setter Ariel Cacao had 14 excellent sets.

FEU is off to a good start with a 1-0 win-loss standing as they prepare for a rematch with their final four opponents De La Salle University on Wednesday, February 21 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City.

 (Photo by FEU Advocate/Zedrich Xylak Madrid)