Far Eastern University (FEU) team captain Jelord Talisayan showcased resilience and leadership as the Tamaraws edged out the National University Bulldogs in Game 1 of the 2024 V-League Men’s Collegiate Challenge semifinals. Despite a shaky third set, Talisayan's determination and skill propelled FEU to a 3-1 victory, setting the tone for the series.
The match was tightly contested, with the Tamaraws holding a promising 23-19 lead in the third set. However, the Bulldogs, despite being undermanned, mounted a stunning comeback, forcing a 24-all tie and providing themselves a glimmer of hope to extend the match. Talisayan faced a critical moment; his cross-court hit sailed wide, handing NU a 25-24 lead. This misstep was a tough blow, but the captain rallied his teammates, and the Bulldogs capitalized on the opportunity, clinching the set and pushing the match into a fourth frame.
“Siguro ano lang, after nung error na ‘yun parang nag-compose kami ulit kasi naka-mindset kaming lahat na ready kami sa worst na mangyayari,” Talisayan reflected. “Kapag ready kami sa worst na mangyayari, dapat alam namin paano namin iha-handle ‘yung sarili namin inside and outside of the court.”
With the third set behind them, Talisayan took control of the match. His relentless energy translated into a commanding performance, as he notched a game-high 21 points, with 20 coming from powerful attacks, alongside 13 excellent receptions and seven digs. His efforts were crucial as FEU seized back the momentum, ultimately finishing the Bulldogs off with a decisive 25-16 victory in the fourth set.
“Yun lang ginawa namin, bumawi at bumawi lang kami,” Talisayan emphasized. “Kasi sayang din naman, pinagtrabahuhan namin ‘yung first and second set, medyo nag-relax ng third set kaya nung fourth set, tinry namin bumawi agad para hindi na umabot ng fifth set.”
Looking ahead, Talisayan is focused on refining the team’s play. He acknowledged the importance of addressing their unforced errors, which he believes could be the key to closing out the series.
“Siguro ‘yung mga lapses namin, especially ‘yung unforced errors ‘yun ang itatrabaho namin skills-wise,” he said. “Tapos ang mindset namin ‘yun pa rin, collective effort lahat ng gagawin namin, maglalaro kami as a team.”
As the Tamaraws prepare for Game 2 on Sunday at 5:00 p.m., Talisayan urges his teammates to embrace every moment on the court. “Sinasabi ko nga sa mga kasama ko na i-seize natin lahat ng pagkakataon na magkakasama tayo kasi next year or next league hindi na tayo magkakasama kaya make the most out of it.”
