UP triumphs over FEU in nail-biting fashion

University of the Philippines, which endured a tough five-set defeat against Colegio de San Juan de Letran last Sunday, survived a grueling battle this time, edging out Far Eastern U, 20-25, 25-19, 26-24, 17-25, 16-14, in the 2024 V-League Women’s Collegiate Challenge at the Paco Arena in Manila Wednesday.

Following their coach's guidance, the Fighting Maroons adhered to the system established by coach Oliver Almadro, focusing on small, achievable goals as they bounced back from a tough 25-19, 25-21, 19-25, 19-25, 8-15 loss to the Letran side.

"Coach Oliver told us to follow the system, so that's what we did. He also emphasized starting with small goals, and that's exactly what we focused on," said UP assistant coach Mario Mia.

UP also used its setback to Letran as motivation.

"That loss became our motivation; we should have almost won that game. We had to win this game no matter what," Mia added.

Down by six points in the fifth set, 7-13, UP unleashed a crippling 7-0 run to stun FEU and gain match point advantage. The Lady Tamaraws tied the game with a crosscourt hit by Lovely Lopez, but an off-the-block attack by Irah Jaboneta and a down-the-line hit from Kianne Olango completed the Fighting Maroons’ comeback for their first women’s volleyball win since defeating University of the East in four sets on March 17.

"This is a sign that we really prepared for this year. With our new recruits, we aim to improve significantly, and there are more good things to come," said Mia.

In the fourth set, FEU halted UP’s momentum, going on a 9-3 run to send the game to a deciding fifth set.

UP, riding the momentum from its second frame win, which was sealed by a Nina Ytang block, took control of the pivotal set, 11-4. However, FEU managed to recover and forced an extension at 24-all after an attack error by Kianne Olango.

Despite the Lady Tamaraws’ comeback, the Fighting Maroons remained unfazed, emerging victorious in a back-and-forth frame capped by a Kassandra Doering quick hit.

The Lady Tamaraws dominated the Fighting Maroons in the attack department (12-7) to take the opening set.

Doering led the Fighting Maroons with 16 points built on nine attacks and seven blocks, while Olango backed her up with 15 points from 10 attacks, three blocks, and two aces.

FEU veteran Chenie Tagaod spearheaded FEU with 20 points from 16 attacks, two blocks, and two aces, while Gerzel Petallo chipped in 18 markers.

UP will next face Lyceum of the Philippines University on Wednesday, Aug. 7, while FEU aims to rebound against De La Salle-College of St. Benilde this Sunday, Aug. 4.