National University star Buds Buddin in Game 1 of the UAAP Season 87 men’s volleyball Finals. Photo from Mark Demayo, ABS-CBN News.MANILA — National University fell short of overcoming Far Eastern University in Game 1 of the UAAP Season 87 men’s volleyball Finals.
The five-peat-seeking Bulldogs were dumped by the Tamaraws in five sets on Sunday, and this now puts FEU a step closer to earning its 26th championship in the men’s division.
A factor in the Bulldogs’ loss was their 34 errors, most of which came during the crucial moments of their lost sets.
READ: FEU inches closer to Season 87 crown after stunning NU in thriller
“Kailangan naming baguhin mga sarili namin,” acknowledged Buds Buddin, who had 12 points, five digs, and three receptions vs. FEU. “Mabigat sa pakiramdam yung pagkatalo, pero kailangan namin yung alisin sa mga isip namin.”
Despite the loss, NU HAD dominated FEU in the scoring department, 63-53, and was even able to rally back despite trailing at multiple points in Sets 4 and 5.
That is why despite the loss, Buddin remains confident of their chances to come back and force an all-or-nothing Game 3 next Sunday, May 18.
“May chance pa rin kaming makabawi, kailangan lang mas focused pa kami,” said the 23-year-old star. “Andoon pa rin naman yung kumpyansa namin.”
“Nakita naman naming kaya namin. Sadyang may mga lapses lang kami, minsan nagre-relax,” he added.
To do this, NU head coach Dante Alinsunurin emphasized that the Bulldogs must reflect on how they can recover from their lapses.
“Iisa-isahin namin yung mga pagkakamali namin,” he said. “Sa sarili namin talaga yung problema, so kailangan lang naming makabalik.”
As for Buddin, discipline will be National U’s key to spoiling the Tamaraws’ dream season.
“Para sa akin, kailangan lang ng disiplina,” he said. “Andoon naman kami, sadyang kinapos lang tiyaka marami pang errors. So kailangang maging mas composed pa kami, at maglaro as a team.”
Game 2 is scheduled on Wednesday, May 14, 1:00 p.m., at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.
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