By Marcus Isaac D.G. Bandong

Far Eastern University (FEU) Lady Tamaraws clinched a playoff berth after a dominant showing on offense against the Ateneo de Manila University (AdMU) Blue Eagles, 22-25, 25-12, 25-17, 25-15, in the 2025 V-League Women's Collegiate Challenge earlier today, September 10, at the Paco Arena in Manila City.

In the first set, the Lady Tamaraws failed to fend off the Blue Eagles’ powerful spikes and drop shots, 11-16.

Despite their heightened floor defense, FEU was not able to overcome Ateneo in the first frame, 22-25.

Tides changed during the second set as the Morayta-based squad utilized the Katipunan-based squad's errors on both ends of the floor, ballooning their lead to nine, 19-10.

To end the second set, green-and-gold opposite hitter Gerzel Petallo snatched the frame with a drop shot, 25-12.

It was the same story for FEU in the third set as they ruled throughout the frame with their impenetrable floor defense and powerful cross-court offense, 25-17.

Looking to end the game, the green-and-gold squad used AdMU's errors to their advantage once again and was able to finish the match courtesy of Petallo's offensive output, 25-15.

In an interview with FEU Advocate, Lady Tamaraws head coach Tina Salak shared how her second group adjustment changed the landscape of the match.

"Hindi naging effective 'yung first group, [kaya] I made some adjustments to replace them. Of course, nabigyan ng exposure 'yung second group, malaking advantage sa akin ‘yun na makikita ko sila sa off-season games, kung paano ko sila gagamitin in the future, especially during [the] UAAP (The first group was not effective, that's why I made adjustments to replace them. This gave the second group exposure, which is helpful in knowing how I will be able to use them in the future, especially during UAAP),” the lead tactician shared.

Petallo led the match, scoring with 17 markers alongside 12 digs and nine excellent receptions. Coming off the bench, second-year outside hitter Kyle Pendon finished with 11 points.

Now stretching their hot streak to four, FEU stands at a 5-1 win-loss record and will look to close out the elimination round against University of Perpetual Help System DALTA on October 1 at the same venue.

(Photo courtesy of the V-League)