By ADRIAN STEWART CO

The National University (NU) Bulldogs banked on their experience to score a 17-25, 25-21, 17-25, 25-14, 15-9 win over the erstwhile undefeated Far Eastern University (FEU) Tamaraws in the UAAP Season 87 men’s volleyball tournament at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Sunday, March 30.

With the Tamaraws suffering their first defeat, the tournament’s semifinals will now follow the traditional Final Four format instead of a step-ladder, which would have been applied had FEU swept the 14-game eliminations.

The defending champion Bulldogs came out firing in the fifth set as they jumped to a 9-2 advantage courtesy of attacks from Rwenzmel Tagubolos, Michaelo Buddin and Leo Ordiales.

The Tamaraws tried to rally back with connections from Zhydryx Saavedra, Mikko Espartero and Amet Bituin, but the Bulldogs responded with hits from Obed Mukaba, Leo Aringo, Jr. and Ordiales to finish off FEU.

Negrense Ordiales led the way with 19 points, from 14 attacks, three blocks and two service aces, to go with four excellent digs as the Bulldogs remained in second place with an 8-2 win-loss slate.

Buddin added 16 points, seven excellent digs and seven excellent receptions, while Aringo and Taguibolos ended up with 14 and 10 points, respectively, for the Bulldogs.

“I always told them that, no matter the situation, at least, we’re still winning,” Bulldogs head coach Dante Alinsunurin said after the game.

“Whatever challenges we face each game, at least, we’re being tested,” he added.

Saavedra paced the Tamaraws with 20 points, from 18 attacks, one block and a service ace.

Espartero contributed 15 markers as they slipped to a 9-1, still on top of the standings./ASC, WDJ