UAAP: Faida Bakanke, FEU sweep UE to get back on track

SCHEDULE: UAAP Season 88 volleyball tournament – second round

FEU Lady Tamaraws’ Faida Bakanke during a game against UE Lady Warriors in the UAAP Season 88 women’s volleyball tournament. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

MANILA, Philippines — Far Eastern University, sans captain Gerz Petallo, made quick work of the University of the East, 25-11, 25-15, 25-22, in the UAAP Season 88 women’s volleyball tournament on Wednesday at Smart Araneta Coliseum.

With Petallo out with a right shoulder injury she suffered on Saturday, the Lady Tamaraws bounced back from a tough loss to the University of Santo Tomas Tigresses that ended their three-game winning streak.

When UE threatened to extend the match on Eljane Nogueras back-to-back points for a 21-20 lead, Faida Bakanke delivered the killer blows for FEU, scoring four of their last five points.

FEU Lady Tamaraws’ Faida Bakanke during a game against UE Lady Warriors in the UAAP Season 88 women’s volleyball tournament. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

Bakanke led the charge for the Lady Tamaraws with 14 points off 12 kills and two blocks, while Jaz Ellarina had 11 points from eight kills and three blocks.

“I just want to say thank you to God because it was not easy about this adjustment that we’re trying to do. Everything that we’re doing right now, it is with love. We make love with everything we’re trying to do. Last, we also add determination and motivation from our coaches,” said Bakanke.

Melody Pons, the sister of Creamline star Bernadeth, stepped up in the absence of Petallo with nine points, nine digs, and five excellent receptions. Love Lopez had seven points as the other starting outside spiker, while Cla Loresco added six.

FEU regained the solo third place with a 5-3 record ahead of its duel against defending champion National University on Saturday at the Big Dome.

“Against UE, we really have to be ready, especially since Gerz is out. We’ve made a few adjustments and we need to work on them because we still don’t know when she’ll be back,” said FEU coach Tina Salak in Filipino.

“We’re hoping that with these adjustments, everyone can contribute and feel comfortable with their roles. UE is not an easy team, so it’s important that we execute well against them. Overall, this is part of our preparation for the second round.”

UE dropped to 0-8, losing 22 straight games dating back to last year’s winless campaign.

Khy Cepada was the lone bright spot for the Lady Warriors with 15 points, 10 digs, and seven receptions.