Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net
Far Eastern University had a rousing debut in the Shakey’s V-League Season 13 Collegiate Conference, trumping NCAA champion College of St. Benilde in straight sets, 25-16, 25-18, 25-18 Monday at Philsports Arena in Pasig.
Bernadeth Pons carried the fight for the Lady Tamaraws with 11 points, eight coming from kills, while Remy Joy Palma and Toni Rose Basas got 10 markers each.
“Masaya kami. Di rin namin in-expect na straight sets yung panalo kasi defending champion ng NCAA yun, pero tingin ko first game lang din kaya naging ganun ang resulta,” said coach Shaq delos Santos.
FEU stressed its dominance in the third set, as it raced to an 8-0 lead to start the clincher. But the Lady Blazers fought back, with Santillan pulling St. Benilde to as close as two, 16-14, before the trio of Pons, Palma, and Basas helped the Lady Tamaraws pull away late.
“Meron pa rin namang ilalabas ang team namin. Kailangan lang din mapabilis para maging consistent kami,” said delos Santos.
With the graduation of star setter Gyzelle Sy, delos Santos gave his young setters Angelica Cayuna and Kyle Negrito the exposure they needed.
“Setter lang naman yung nawala sa amin. Meron naman kaming dalawang setter na alam naming magtatrabaho naman. Kailangan din ma-expose na rin sila for this coming season,” said the coach.
Cayuna had 19 excellent sets in the win for the Lady Tamaraws.
Jeanette Panaga topped St. Benilde with seven points, while Chelsea Santillan had six.