By Mark Steven Donque

The Far Eastern University (FEU) Tamaraws secured their seat in the Finals after beating the third-seeded Ateneo de Manila University (AdMU) Blue Eagles in four sets, 21-25, 25-23, 25-22, 25-22, in the Final Four match-up of the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) season 81 men’s volleyball tournament last May 4 at the Mall of Asia (MOA) Arena in Pasay City.

The Far Eastern University (FEU) Tamaraws secured their seat in the Finals after beating the third-seeded Ateneo de Manila University (AdMU) Blue Eagles in four sets, 21-25, 25-23, 25-22, 25-22, in the Final Four match-up of the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) season 81 men’s volleyball tournament last May 4 at the Mall of Asia (MOA) Arena in Pasay City.

Jude Garcia led the charge of the Tamaraws after scoring 14 points out of 12 attacks, one block, and an ace. John Paul Bugaoan and Richard Solis ended the match with 13 and 12 markers, respectively; while Redi John Paler and Peter Quiel added nine points each.

After losing the opening set, the Tamaraw spikers switched on a different gear, displaying better defense and offense to steer their way in the succeeding frames and eventually book a ticket to the Finals.

“Thank you po sa suporta, salamat sa lahat ng naniwala [sa amin], salamat sa maraming blessings (Thank you for the support, thank you to all those who believed in us, and thank you for the overwhelming blessings),” FEU head coach Reynaldo Diaz expressed moments after winning the match.

Having the twice-to-beat advantage on their side, the Morayta-based squad showcased an inspired volleyball game for their family and lived their brand ‘Braver Today’ all throughout the race.

As what skipper Richard Solis quoted, “‘Yung game namin, talagang pinaghandaan namin nang mabuti ‘yun. ‘Yung game [ay] inaalay namin sa mga family namin at sa FEU community talaga kaya inspired na inspired kaming maglaro (We really prepared for that game, and we dedicate this to our family, and to the FEU community that’s why we are really inspired to play).”

Moreover, FEU’s Owen Jaime Suarez also made a mark in the game as he ended with 27 excellent sets, while Vince Patrick Lorenzo concluded the match with a total of 33 receptions.

With the championship title getting closer to their hands, the team’s eagerness intensifies, as JP Bugaoan shared to FEU Advocate that they are more than willing to do everything just to achieve their goal.

“Masarap sa feeling kasi nakabalik uli ‘yung FEU sa Finals so ‘di kami titigil hangga’t ‘di namin nakukuha ‘yung malaking trophy (It feels good because FEU returns again in the Finals, so we will never stop until we get the big trophy),” Bugaoan told.

The Tamaraws returned to the Finals after making their last appearance in season 75. They also ended the National University (NU)-AdMU rivalry in the men’s tournament which lasted for five consecutive years since season 76.

With that, a hungrier Tamaraws are expected to be seen in the best-of-three championship series. Coach Diaz ended his statement by saying that their mentality will always remain to be thirsty for every win.

“Laging naka-mindset kami na uhaw [manalo], na talagang gusto naming makuha. Sinimulan na natin so dapat walang titigil (We always have the mindset of being eager to win, that we really want to attain it. We already started it, so no one must stop),” coach Diaz added.

The hunt towards the 26th championship crown of the green-and-gold squad will continue on May 11 as they take on the defending champions, NU Bulldogs, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City

(See full album: UAAP 81 Men's Volleyball Final 4 Game 1 - FEU vs Ateneo)