By Krizza Gabrielle Tabora

Far Eastern University (FEU) Tamaraws clinched a four-set victory over their Final Four opponents Ateneo de Manila University (AdMU) Blue Eagles, 29-27, 25-23, 15-25, 25-19, in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) Season 88 men’s volleyball tournament earlier today, April 22, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City.

In the opening set, the Tamaraws and the Blue Eagles went point-for-point until Dryx Saavedra unleashed multiple attacks throughout, 29-27.

During the second frame, the green-and-gold team attempted to thwart the blue-and-white squad’s net defense to chip away at an early deficit, 8-10.

Capitalizing on the momentum, Amet Bituin and Saavedra combined for a late offensive surge that allowed the Morayta-based squad to claim the set, 25-23.

However, FEU’s rhythm faltered in the third set as Ateneo’s Kennedy Batas gave the Tamaraws a six-point deficit, 11-17.

Hampered by a string of unforced errors, the green-and-gold squad eventually missed out on a straight-set win against AdMU, 15-25. 

Determined to finish the game early, Bituin anchored the Tamaraws’ offense in the fourth frame to regain control and leave AdMU trailing, 13-10.

Eventually, Lirick Mendoza’s decisive block and Luis Miguel’s attack sealed the victory for the Morayta-based squad, 25-19.

Bituin earned Player of the Game honors with 21 points from 18 attacks and three blocks, while Dryx Saavedra tallied 16 markers built on 14 attacks, one block, and one ace. Meanwhile, Mikko Espartero tallied a double-double performance with 13 points and 19 excellent receptions.

During the post-game conference, Saavedra emphasized the importance of living in the moment to deter the pressure and be able to play their best.

“Siyempre ‘yung standing tapos na ‘yun. Kailangan talaga mawala ‘yun sa isipan ng bawat isa. Siguro kailangan naming bumalik at i-enjoy namin ‘yung [laro], kasi kung lalo mong pine-pressure ‘yung sarili mo, dun ka bumababa, eh. So ‘yung palagi naming sinasabi na cherish the moment talaga kasi pag ini-enjoy mo yun, doon mo napapakita ‘yung best mo (The standings are already behind us, and we really need to clear that from our minds. We probably need to get back to just enjoying the game, because the more you pressure yourself, the more your performance drops. We always remind ourselves to really cherish the moment — because when you're enjoying it, that’s when you’re able to show your best),” he stated.

Moreover, Bituin also stated that the team will sacrifice what they can during their most crucial games.

“‘Yung laging sinasabi ng coaches na nandito na kami sa pinakakailangan at pukpukan na laro. Kaya dapat lahat ng kayang i-sacrifice, i-sacrifice na muna para mag-focus sa team at sa goal namin (Like what our coaches always say, we’ve reached the point where the games are most critical and the competition is at its peak. That’s why we need to sacrifice whatever is necessary for now, so we can stay fully focused on the team and our ultimate goal),” Bituin shared. 

The Tamaraws capped off the elimination round as the top seed with a 13-1 win-loss card and a twice-to-beat advantage. As they march into the semifinals, they will face AdMU again in a rematch with the date and venue yet to be announced. 

(Photo by James Neil Tamayo/FEU Advocate)