UAAP: FEU Lady Tamaraws’ 23 blocks not suprising, says Chenie Tagaod

FEU Lady Tamaraws’ Chenie Tagaod. UAAP PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines—Far Eastern University showed exemplary floor defense in its 25-16, 18-25, 25-23, 25-16 win against University of the East on Sunday at Araneta Coliseum.

The Lady Tamaraws showed off brilliance on the defensive end against UE with 23 team blocks but according to Chenie Tagaod, who tallied six of those blocks, it was not all that surprising.

“It just worked because we always practice it. The first thing we do in practice is our blocking before we practice our attack,” Tagaod said after finishing with 20 points overall.

“Maybe the reason for our blockings showing the way it did is because we did whatever our coaches told us as well.”

The Lady Tamaraws also played splendidly on offense, allowing the Lady Warriors to convert only two blocks as a whole.

FEU Lady Tamaraws celebrate a point. –UAAP PHOTO

Following Tagaod in the defensive frenzy is Mitzi Panangin with five of her own to finish with 11 points.

“I don’t need to get appreciation from my players’ words, their execution is the biggest factor. Their 23 points [off the block] is enough as thanks.  This is like our strength in numbers,” coach Tina Salak said in Filipino.

FEU’s splendid play earned them a 5-5 record in the elimination round, further bolstering their Final Four bid as the fifth seed just behind National University (6-3) at fourth. 

Heading into the Holy Week break, Salak stated that they would need to work double time if they want to move further to their playoff goals.

“We’re not there yet but I think, for us to sustain our goal, we need to work double time this break. Our break is only for two days then it’s back to reality after they get inspiration from their family,” Salak explained.

“They also need that [motivation]. For the longest time, they don’t have contact with their family. Through this break, they and we’ll get our inspiration so when we come back, at least they are inspired with a new momentum.”

FEU’s first game back from the week-long break will be against the Lady Bulldogs on April 16 at Philsports Arena.