FEU-D barges into win column

Far Eastern University-Diliman (FEU-D) finally broke into the win column, snapping its two-game skid with a 25-14, 25-15, 25-19 sweep of University of the Philippines Integrated School (UPIS) in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) Season 89 high school girls’ volleyball tournament on Friday at the Paco Arena Events and Sports Center in Manila.

It was a challenging start for the Baby Tamaraws, who finished as runners-up last season, but the straight-set victory over the Fighting Maroons should provide a much-needed boost in confidence as they continue to work on the finer details of their game.

“I guess we just need to focus on what we’re doing because we’re making too many errors. I think that’s what we need to improve on the most. The kids played well today, but hopefully, whatever we’re still lacking, we can continue to improve on,” FEU-D head coach Joanne Bunag said.

“Hopefully this momentum continues because we’re coming off two losses. I hope this first win of ours keeps going all the way into the second round. There are still a lot of games left, it’s still a long way to go, and the season is far from over.”

The Baby Tamaraws quickly built a 16-6 advantage in the third set, their biggest lead of the frame, after a three-point run capped by back-to-back kills from Joeyana Bongo.

FEU-D remained in control from there, with Nigerian standout MJ Udeagbala sending the Baby Tamaraws to match point at 24-15.

UPIS, however, fended off four match points, capitalizing on two FEU-D attack errors and a pair of attacks from Anya Callo to stay alive. Udeagbala finally broke through on the fifth attempt, drilling the match-winning kill.