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UP pulls off four-set upset of FEU for 2-0 start in UAAP tourney
The University of the Philippines (UP) Fighting Maroons made a strong start in the UAAP Season 87 Women’s Volleyball Tournament, defeating the Far Eastern University (FEU) Lady Tamaraws in four sets, 23-25, 25-23, 25-17, 25-23, to capture their second consecutive win at the FilOil EcoOil Centre on Wednesday, February 19.
This victory marked a significant improvement for UP, surpassing their one-win campaign from the previous season.
Jaz Ellarina’s strong play helped FEU take a commanding 14-7 lead in the fourth set, putting them in position to force a deciding fifth set.
However, the Fighting Maroons refused to give up, mounting a rally led by Kianne Olango, Joan Monares, and Kassandra Doering, which shifted the momentum and gave UP a 22-20 lead.
Despite late errors from UP allowing FEU to close the gap to 24-23, Niña Ytang sealed the victory with a clever push shot that pierced through the Lady Tamaraws’ defense, securing the win after two hours and 24 minutes.
PHOTO COURTESY: UAAP MEDIA
“It’s been good so far. We just tried something new, and it worked. Let’s see if they adapt further to the defensive system, and we’ll take it from there, progressing one step at a time,” said UP head coach Benson Bocboc after the win, which marked his team’s second victory and improved upon their 1-13 record from last season.
With the win, UP shares the early lead in the standings with National University at 2-0.
This also marked UP’s first victory over FEU since their 25-10, 25-19, 25-7 win on June 2, 2022, during Season 84’s second round.
Monares led the Fighting Maroons in double-digit scoring with 19 points, while standout rookie Kianne Olango added 17 markers built from 13 attacks, three blocks, and two aces. Irah Jaboneta also exhibited a great outing with 11 points, 12 receptions, and seven digs.
Jaz Manguilimotan provided 17 excellent sets, and veteran blocker Ytang contributed 15 points, including four blocks.
UP will look to extend its perfect start to 3-0 when they face winless Ateneo de Manila University on Sunday, February 23, at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.
On the other hand, Clarisse Loresco paced the Lady Tamaraws with 11 markers, and Chenie Tagaod added 10 points and seven digs.
FEU will aim to bounce back on Sunday, February 23, against defending champions National University.
