FEU escapes thriller against UP, grabs 4th spot

By Emy Manipol

PASAY--With both squads equally matched, the Far Eastern University Lady Tamarraws and the University of the Philippines Fighting Lady Maroons gave the spectators a volleyball treat with five highly-contested sets with FEU coming out on top, 27-25, 21-25, 25-22, 20-25, 15-12, at the Mall of Asia Arena on Sunday night.

The first two sets were close for both teams with full display of great floor defense for both squads.

The first set extended by two points before a Heather Guino-o point won it for FEU.

UP then bounced back during the second set to tie the game behind the offense of Isa Molde and Diana Carlos.

The Lady Maroons appeared to be cruising pass the Lady Tamaraws during the third set before the latter caught up to their eight-point lead and eventually snatch the third canto from the Lady Maroons.

With their backs against the wall, UP relied on its floor defense and balance offense to tie the match with two sets a piece. 

During the deciding set, FEU led 10-6 but UP got its groove together and came within one 13-12.

FEU then scored the last two points to barge to the fourth spot in the team standings as the first round of eliminations nears its close.

Outside of the offensive contribution of Chin Basas and Bernadette Pons, FEU libero Ria Duremdes also made a good account of herself with her heroic saves specially on strong attacks from UP’s Molde.

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