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# FEU Opens V-League Title Defense With Sweep, Survives Mapúa Fightback
- URL: https://www.wwconemedia.com/feu-opens-v-league-title-defense-with-sweep-survives-mapua-fightback/
- Published: 2026-09-05T09:51:41.000Z
- Updated: 2026-09-05T12:48:40.000Z
- Author: WWC NEWSDESK
- Tags: SPORT, TAIWAN, PHILIPPINES

But the final score does not tell the whole story.

Mapúa mounted a serious challenge in the second set, taking a **20-17 advantage** and putting the defending champions in danger of surrendering the momentum. FEU, however, responded when it mattered most, turning the pressure into a decisive run and eventually securing a two-set cushion.

The Tamaraws then took control in the third set to complete the sweep.

## Saavedra leads FEU charge

FEU captain **Dryx Saavedra** provided the finishing touch to a strong opening performance.

Saavedra registered **13 points on 10 attacks and an ace**, while also contributing nine digs. His service ace helped put the finishing stamp on the Tamaraws' victory.

Mikko Espartero supplied crucial support with **14 points**, including 13 attacks and a block, while also adding two digs and five excellent receptions.

Setter Rhodson Du-ot kept FEU's offense organized with **20 excellent sets** and five digs.

The victory continues the strong trajectory of a FEU program that has remained one of the country's leading forces in men's collegiate volleyball.

The Tamaraws were also among the country's top collegiate teams in UAAP Season 88\. FEU completed the first round unbeaten earlier this year, with Saavedra and Lirick Mendoza among its leading performers.

FEU ultimately finished UAAP Season 88 as runner-up to National University, while Mikko Espartero was among the Tamaraws' leading scorers in the championship series.

## Mapúa gets big game from Ramos

Mapúa refused to go quietly.

Ar-Jay Ramos carried much of the Cardinals' offensive load, finishing with **19 points**, nine digs and 14 excellent receptions. But FEU's balanced attack and ability to close out the crucial moments prevented Mapúa from extending the match.

The defeat leaves Mapúa at **0-3** in the tournament.

The Cardinals are scheduled to face the National University Bulldogs in a rescheduled match on Wednesday, while FEU continues its title defense against the **De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde Blazers** on Sunday.

## Why this win matters

For FEU, the opening-day sweep is more than just another victory.

The Tamaraws showed they can absorb pressure, particularly after Mapúa threatened to steal the second set, and still find a way to finish strongly. That composure could prove important as the title race develops.

FEU's recent record also provides context. The Tamaraws have consistently competed deep into major collegiate competitions, with Saavedra, Espartero, Mendoza and other returning contributors forming the backbone of a team accustomed to high-pressure matches.

For Mapúa, meanwhile, the challenge now is to convert competitive stretches into complete sets and, eventually, wins.

The Cardinals showed they could push the defending champions—but **FEU showed why beating the defending champions is a much different task.**

And with the Tamaraws' title defense only getting started, the bigger question may now be just how far this FEU squad can go.

### WWC ONE MEDIA G.A