By ADRIAN STEWART CO

The National University (NU) Bulldogs tightened the UAAP Season 88 men’s volleyball race after overcoming the Far Eastern University (FEU) Tamaraws, 28-26, 17-25, 24-26, 25-11, 15-8, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Sunday, March 22.

The Bulldogs, who are chasing a sixth straight title, improved to 7-2 and moved within one win of the Tamaraws.

FEU, despite absorbing its first defeat of the tournament, stayed on top of the standings at 8-1.

Negrense Leo Ordiales and Michaelo Buddin spearheaded NU’s fightback after the team fell behind two sets to one, delivering in crucial moments to turn the match around.

Buddin and Ordiales took control late, especially in the deciding frame.

With the fifth set tied at 7-7, NU unleashed a decisive run.

Buddin sparked the surge before setter Greg Ancheta contributed a key block, followed by a string of points from both Buddin and Ordiales to complete an 8-1 finish kick.

Ordiales led all scorers with 30 points, built on 24 attacks, three blocks and three aces, along with six digs.

Buddin backed him up with 25 points, highlighted by 19 attacks, three blocks and three aces, while also contributing on floor defense.

Jade Disquitado added 12 points and provided stability in reception, while Ancheta orchestrated the offense with 34 excellent sets and chipped in three blocks.

Jimwell Gapultos also made his presence felt defensively.

On the other side, Mikko Espartero paced FEU with 22 points and solid reception work.

Dryx Saavedra contributed 18 markers, while Lirick Mendoza finished with 10 points, all scored in the first three sets.

Meanwhile, the University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons finally snapped their frustrating five-game slide with a hard-fought 25-22, 23-25, 25-23, 25-20 victory over the University of the East Red Warriors.

The Fighting Maroons, who started the season 2-1, had dropped five straight matches before this win, improving their record to 3-6.

Olayemi Raheem led the victory with 20 points./ASC, WDJ