By ADRIAN STEWART CO

Far Eastern University (FEU) Lady Tamaraws kept its unbeaten record in the 2023 V-League Women’s Collegiate Challenge after a 25-12, 25-18, 25-12 victory over San Sebastian College-Recoletos Lady Stags at the Paco Arena in Manila.

Negrense Kiesha Bedonia continued her solid showing for the Lady Tamaraws with 13 points, including 10 attacks, while Mitzi Panangin and Chenie Tagaod contributed 10 markers each.

Libero Max Jungco was named as the Player of the Game after finishing with 17 digs and eight excellent receptions as the Lady Tamaraws notched their fifth win in as many games to secure a semifinals seat in the tournament.

“Team effort pa rin ito. Ang dahilan kung bakit nakakadepensa nang maayos si Max ay dahil maganda rin ang blocking namin,” Lady Tamaraws interim head coach Manolo Refugia said.

However, Refugia said the Lady Tamaraws will have to be prepared as their next two matches are against top teams, University of the East Lady Warriors and College of Saint Benilde Lady Blazers.

Amacka Tan attempted to keep the Lady Stags in the match with eight points, while Tin Marasigan struggled also to end up with just seven points. They remained winless in five matches.

Meanwhile, Khy Cepada made her return for the Lady Warriors as they hacked out a 25-15, 25-15, 25-23 victory over the Lyceum of the Philippines University Lady Pirates.

Earlier reported to have moved to another school, Cepada made a surprise appearance for the Lady Warriors against the Lady Pirates as they secured their fifth victory in as many games and reached the semifinals.

Cepada, who took over the spot from the injured Jelaica Gajero, played a crucial role for the Lady Warriors as she contributed three kills before Casiey Dongallo eventually sealed the victory with an off-the-block hit.

Kacey Balingit led the Lady Warriors with eight points in the match, including five spikes, one block and two service aces, while Dongallo relentlessly attacked the Lady Pirates’ defense with 10 kills./ASC, WDJ