MANILA — Far Eastern University dug deep to hold off Mapua, 25–19, 25–22, 25–15, for a triumphant start to its title defense in the 2026 V-League Collegiate Challenge on Saturday.
The Tamaraws trailed 17-20 in the second set before Joshua Idong sparked their comeback at the Gameville Central Park in Mandaluyong City.
From there it was all FEU, as they needed just 20 minutes in the third set to complete the win. Dryx Saavedra, now the Tamaraws' captain, put the match away with a service ace.
FEU's Dryx Saavedra in action against Mapua in the 2026 V-League Collegiate Challenge, September 5, 2026 at the Gameville Central Park in Mandaluyong City. PVL Media
"Siguro, mas ginugusto lang ng mga players na maging maganda yung galaw, yung depensahan, yung counter attack. Kailangan lang sigurong linisin yung serve pass. Don kami mag-focus," said FEU head coach Eddieson Orcullo.
Mikko Espartero was steady on both sides of the court for FEU, producing 14 points on 13 attacks and a block, while also adding two digs and five excellent receptions.
Saavedra finished with 13 markers, including 10 attacks and the match-clinching ace, along with nine digs, while starting setter Rhodson Du-ot tallied 20 excellent sets and five digs.
The Tamaraws will go for a weekend sweep when they face the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde Blazers the next day at 10 a.m.
Ar-Jay Ramos was the lone Cardinal in double figures with 19 points, to go with nine digs and 14 excellent receptions, but Mapua slipped to 0–3.
The Cardinals will look for a breakthrough when they battle the National University Bulldogs in their rescheduled match on Wednesday at 3 p.m.