Both FEU and NU aim to extend their winning runs as the Tamaraws face the UP Fighting Maroons while the NU Bulldogs collide with the Ateneo Blue Eagles.
League-leading FEU puts its perfect start on the line as the Tamaraws go for a 6-0 record while five-time defending champion NU tries to stay within striking distance in UAAP Season 88 men’s volleyball action Sunday, March 8.
The Bulldogs open the twin bill against the dangerous Ateneo Blue Eagles at 9:00 a.m., before the unbeaten Tamaraws take on the UP Fighting Maroons at 11:00 a.m. at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
Both matches will also stream live on the Pilipinas Live app and on the UAAP Varsity Channel.
[RELATED: SCHEDULE | UAAP Season 88 volleyball guide, where to watch]
So far, FEU has looked every bit the early powerhouse of the tournament.
The Tamaraws improved to 5-0 after overcoming a slow start to hack out a 23-25, 26-24, 25-15, 25-19 win against the Blue Eagles.
Team captain Ariel Cacao once again pulled the strings for FEU, orchestrating the offense with 30 excellent sets while also chipping in three points.
Mikko Espartero powered the attack with a stellar all-around outing of 21 points, 20 excellent receptions and three excellent digs, while Lirick Mendoza added 15 markers.
With momentum firmly on their side, the Morayta-based squad now faces a UP side eager to regain its footing.
The Fighting Maroons sit at 2-2 after absorbing a 28-26, 25-23, 25-20 loss to National U a week ago.
While the Tamaraws look to stretch its immaculate start, the Bulldogs are determined not to lose ground either.
National U, currently at 4-1, trail only unbeaten FEU in the team standings and is seeking a third straight victory in tackling Ateneo in their first meeting this season.
NU is coming off an impressive 25-20, 25-13, 25-20 sweep of the UE Red Warriors, with setter Greg Ancheta steering the offense with 16 excellent sets.
[RELATED: NU sweeps UE to claim solo second in UAAP Season 88 men's volleyball]
Ateneo (2-3), however, hopes to bounce back and pick up its second win in the last three games as it attempts to slow down the defending champions.
(With reports from Pao Ambat)
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[Editor's note: This article was written by a member of the One Sports Digital with the help of AI, and then checked by the staff to ensure accuracy.]