By Angel Joyce C. Basa

Far Eastern University (FEU) Lady Tamaraws prevailed in a four-setter match against the University of the Philippines (UP) Fighting Maroons, 25-16, 23-25, 25-17, 26-24, in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) Season 85 women’s volleyball tournament at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City, February 26.

The Morayta volleybelles entered the match with a powerful start to beat the Maroon squad by nine points in the first set, 25-16.

FEU slowed their momentum during the second set but redeemed themselves in the third set and extended the match in a thrilling fourth set, 26-24.

Setter Tin Ubaldo was hailed as the player of the game with 16 excellent sets and five points from three attacks and two blocks.

The green-and-gold sophomore also brought up the pressure she felt to be training under a legendary new tactician in a post-game interview.

“Medyo may pressure po kasi nga po legendary, pero sa training naman po, lahat ng alam ni coach [ay] pinapasa niya sa amin (There’s a slight pressure because of the legendary title, but during our trainings, coach shares to us everything that she knows),” Ubaldo explained.

Head Coach Tina Salak also shared her thoughts with their first win after debuting as the tactician of the volleybelles this season.

“It’s a good start, definitely a good start for the team, sa (for the) program, and also doon sa (to the) community,” she said.

Lady Tams Chenie Tagaod and Alyzza Devosora also contributed double-digit markers to the winning team with 13 and 12 points respectively.

The Morayta-based team will go against the University of Santo Tomas Golden Tigresses at the same venue on Wednesday, March 1.

(Photo courtesy of The UAAP)