Bakanke, Ubaldo step up in crunch time as FEU outlasts Ateneo

Far Eastern University (FEU) ended its two-game losing streak with a hard-fought victory over Ateneo de Manila University, winning 25-15, 20-25, 25-17, 24-26, 15-11 in the UAAP Season 87 Women’s Volleyball Tournament on Sunday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena. 

With the deciding set tied at nine, Tin Ubaldo and Faida Bakanke ignited a crucial four-point run, highlighted by consecutive blocks from Bakanke against Ateneo’s leading scorer, Lyann de Guzman, giving FEU a 13-9 advantage.

The Congolese opposite hitter then sealed the match with a down-the-line attack, securing FEU’s second win in four matches after an intense two-hour and 25-minute battle.  

“Actually, we made a lot of adjustments. I’m happy with how they performed, but like I always say, they need to be fully prepared for situations like this,” said FEU head coach Tina Salak.  

“We want to keep pushing them so that by the second round, we’re ready to fight through the challenges we’re facing now.”  

Ateneo forced a fifth set after Gerzel Petallo tied the fourth frame at 24 with a well-placed drop shot. However, De Guzman responded with a powerful attack that deflected off an FEU defender’s hand, securing the point following a successful block touch challenge.  

Yvana Sulit then delivered a clutch service ace, sending the match to a decider.  

FEU started the season strong with a dominant win over University of Santo Tomas but suffered consecutive losses to University of the Philippines and National University before bouncing back with this victory. 

The Lady Tamaraws are now 2-2, creating a four-way tie for third place alongside UP, De La Salle University, and Adamson University.  

Gerzel Petallo led the Lady Tamaraws with 18 points, including 14 attacks and four blocks, while also contributing 14 excellent receptions. 

Bakanke chipped in 15 points, five of which came in the final set, while Mitzi Panangin added 11 points, including six of FEU’s 20 total blocks.  

Despite being outmatched in attacks, 52-61, FEU’s defensive presence at the net was the difference-maker. The Lady Tamaraws recorded 18 more blocks than Ateneo, with Panangin and Bakanke tallying six and five, respectively.  

FEU aims to build on this momentum when they face the University of the East on Wednesday, March 5, at the same venue.