FEU Tamaraws Overcome Ateneo Blue Eagles to Preserve Unbeaten Streak in UAAP Volleyball
In a thrilling UAAP Season 88 men's volleyball clash, the Far Eastern University (FEU) Tamaraws emerged victorious over the Ateneo de Manila University Blue Eagles with a score of 23-25, 26-24, 25-15, 25-19. This hard-fought win, secured on Wednesday afternoon, March 4, 2026, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, allowed FEU to maintain its perfect record in the tournament.
Key Performances Lead to Tamaraws' Triumph
Mikko Espartero delivered an outstanding all-around performance, contributing 21 points from 19 attacks, along with 20 excellent receptions and three digs. Lirick Mendoza added 15 points, including nine attacks and six blocks, playing a crucial role in FEU's comeback after a first-set stumble. The Tamaraws rallied from an initial setback to secure their fifth consecutive win, showcasing resilience and teamwork.
Other notable contributors included Dryx Saavedra with 12 points from 10 attacks and six digs, Absin off the bench with 11 points, and Amet Bituin with nine points. Team captain Ariel Cacao orchestrated the offense with 30 excellent sets, while Vennie Ceballos anchored the defense with 18 excellent receptions and nine digs.
Match Dynamics and Turning Points
The match saw intense competition, with Ateneo taking the first set 25-23. However, FEU turned the tide in a narrow second-set win of 26-24, which fueled their momentum. In the third set, the Tamaraws dominated, racing to a 16-8 lead and ultimately winning 25-15, powered by consecutive blocks from Espartero and Mendoza.
This momentum carried into the fourth frame, where FEU built a comfortable 14-7 lead early on. Although Ateneo trimmed the deficit to 15-11, FEU quickly regained control. Key plays from Espartero and Saavedra, including a game-winning off-the-block hit, sealed the victory and preserved FEU's unbeaten status.
Standings and Ateneo's Performance
With this win, FEU retains first place in the UAAP standings with a perfect 5-0 record. They lead ahead of defending champion National University (4-1), which earlier swept the University of the East, and the idle University of Santo Tomas (3-1).
On the other hand, Ateneo fell to solo fifth place with a 2-3 record. Aimar Okeke led the Blue Eagles with 18 points, 19 excellent receptions, and three digs. Jian Salarzon added 12 points, while rookie Rodge Alejos contributed 12 points. Brian Castro had nine points, and Enzo Gutierrez delivered 22 excellent sets, with libero Lance de Castro recording 13 excellent receptions and six digs.
Upcoming Matches and Future Outlook
Looking ahead, FEU aims to extend its unbeaten streak against the University of the Philippines, while Ateneo seeks a bounce-back victory versus National University. Both matches are scheduled for Sunday, March 8, 2026, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, promising more exciting volleyball action in the UAAP tournament.
