UAAP: FEU remains unbeaten with win over Ateneo; NU sweeps UE in men’s volleyball

Far Eastern University outlasted Ateneo de Manila University, 23-25, 26-24, 25-15, 25-19, in the UAAP Season 88 men's volleyball tournament on Wednesday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Mikko Espartero tallied 21 points built on 19 attacks and two blocks, along with 20 receptions and three digs, to power the Tamaraws to a 5-0 record.

Lirick Mendoza added 15 points, while Dryx Saavedra and Charles Absin chipped in 12 and 11, respectively. Ariel Cacao orchestrated the offense with 30 excellent sets, and Vennie Ceballos contributed 18 points.

The victory spoiled Emman Okeke’s 18-point, 19-reception effort for the Blue Eagles. Jian Salarzon and Kristofer Alejos scored 12 points each as Ateneo dropped to 2-3.

Earlier, National University swept University of the East, 25-20, 25-13, 25-20, in a match that lasted just over an hour.

The Bulldogs leaned on a shorter rotation, with Leo Ordiales scoring 14 points. Jade Disquitado finished with 13 points and 15 receptions, while Buds Buddin and Peng Taguibolos added 11 points apiece. Obed Mukaba chipped in eight markers.

Greg Ancheta registered 16 excellent sets, while Jimwell Gapultos tallied nine digs and eight receptions as NU improved to 4-1.

Raquim Aceron, Xijhann Camaymayan, and Carl John Nabora, meanwhile, had eight points apiece as UE slipped to 1-4.

—JKC, GMA Integrated News