Manila: Far Eastern University (FEU) defeated Colegio de San Juan de Letran, 25-23, 25-22, 25-20, on Wednesday to complete an all-UAAP semifinal cast in the 2025 V-League Collegiate Challenge at the Paco Arena Events and Sports Center in Manila.
According to Philippines News Agency, the Tamaraws relied on the leadership of skipper Dryx Saavedra and the impressive performance of sophomore hitter Amet Bituin to improve their standing to 4-3 with 14 points, securing the No. 3 spot in the Final Four. They trail behind the unbeaten De La Salle University and the University of Santo Tomas.
Saavedra made a significant contribution with 17 points from 16 attacks and one block, while Bituin added 11 points from nine attacks, one ace, and one block, along with 11 outstanding receptions. Ateneo de Manila University, with a 4-3 record and 12 points, claimed the No. 4 seed.
Teams such as Letran, College of Saint Benilde, and National University have exited the competition. FEU head coach Eddieson Orcullo expressed contentment with his team's performance, commenting on their mindset and emotional drive. He stated, "Siguro whatever happens sa game ng Letran, talagang tatanggapin na namin kung ano result 'eh. Siguro minsan dala rin ng emotions 'eh tsaka mindset kung paano (bumawi). Maganda naman pinakita ng mga bata. Heading into the semis, tignan natin ano mangyayari (We were going to accept whatever happens with the game with Letran. Perhaps it takes emotions and mindset [to win]. Our players had a good showing. Heading into the semis, we will see what happens)."
In the second set, with the score tied at 19-all, FEU managed a 6-3 run powered by Mikko Espartero, Bituin, and Saavedra, concluding the set after 27 minutes. The third set saw contributions from Charles David Absin, Bituin, and Saavedra, securing a 17-10 lead that led to a one-hour and 27-minute victory.
Absin scored 10 points, Lirick Mendoza added nine points, and second setter Rhodson Du-ot delivered 23 excellent sets in the absence of Ariel Cacao. Dave Lardizabal led the Knights with 15 points from 13 attacks and two blocks, while Felix Bermido and Bembem Bautista each scored seven points.
Letran, with a 2-4 record, is set to face NU at the Filoil Center in San Juan on Sept. 29.
