Lady Tams rap Falcons, seal title duel vs Bulldogs

MANILA, Philippines — Far Eastern University drew inspiration from Bernadeth Pons’ return as it overcame a first-set foldup with a sweep of the next three to thwart Adamson, 21-25, 25-20, 25-22, 25-18, last night and set up a showdown with National U for the Premier Volleyball League Collegiate Conference crown.

Pons, who with libero Kyla Atienza missed the team’s last three games to complete in the SEA Beach Volleyball Championship in Singapore and anchor FEU’s campaign in the UAAP beach volley, fired 15 points, including 12 kills and two blocks and provided the leadership and composure the Lady Tams needed to clinch their best-of-three semis series, 2-1, at the Filoil Flying V Center.

Czarina Carandang helped the Lady Tamaraws build an early separation in the second frame then Pons took charge in the stretch of the third frame before teaming up with Celine Domingo and Carandang in their fourth set breakaway to score a follow-up to their thrilling five-set Game Two victory.

FEU and NU, which swept Arellano U in their side of the semis in the season-ending conference of the league organized by Sports Vision and backed by Mikasa and Asics, open their best-of-three title playoff at 6:30 p.m. tomorrow.

“As I told my players, it’s all about one’s desire to win, their willingness, character and heart because they have the same skill level. (Bernadeth) Pons being here is also a big help,” said FEU coach George Pascua.

It was a sorry setback for the Lady Falcons, who swept their group elims and toppled the Lady Tams, also in five, in the opener of their Final Four duel.

Carandang paced FEU with 16 points built on 13 attacks and three blocks, while Pons also came away with 14 digs and 11 excellent receptions and Toni Basas chipped in 10 markers.

Atienza also suited up to log 21 digs and 14 excellent receptions.

Christine Soyud scored 16 points while Chiara Permentilla added 10 markers for the Lady Falcons who also fielded in Bernadette Flora (8 points) and Chrislyn Uy, who also competed in the UAAP beach volley.