De La Salle University finally had its moment against Far Eastern University, clawing past the defending champions in a five-set classic, 29-27, 25-14, 12-25, 21-25, 15-13, to secure the first semifinal ticket of the 2025 V-League Collegiate Challenge on Saturday, August 30, at the Paco Arena Sports and Events Center.

The Green Spikers, who fell to the Tamaraws in last year’s Finals, flipped the narrative this time around with grit, chemistry, and clutch plays when it mattered most.

Rodriguez, Gloria deliver the dagger

With the match hanging in the balance at 13-all in the deciding set, captain JJ Rodriguez stepped up with a crucial block against Mikko Espartero. Moments later, Eugene Gloria delivered the finishing blow—a powerful backrow attack that pierced FEU’s defense—sending the Green Spikers into jubilation after a two-hour-and-29-minute battle.

“Siguro one thing (na nagwo-work) ngayon is the mere fact na we’re young, so parang nagkakaisa sila. Walang seniority, na parang as one team they see to it na nagkakaintindihan sila,” Jose Roque, who has steered the Green Spikers program for three years now.

“Siguro ‘yun ang naging edge namin nitong mga games namin; na nagagampanan namin ‘yung trabaho namin na mas madali silang umintindi,” he added.

Green Spikers withstand FEU fightback

La Salle controlled the first two sets behind the offensive rhythm of Ezer Regidor and the defensive anchor Win Retiro. But the Tamaraws, true to form, roared back in the third and fourth with Dryx Saavedra and Espartero igniting the offense while Rhodson Duot kept them steady.

In the end, however, La Salle leaned on its firepower and floor defense to survive the FEU surge. Ousseini powered the Green Spikers with 23 points from 19 attacks, three blocks, and an ace. Chris Hernandez added 16 points and provided stability on defense with 21 excellent receptions.

La Salle now turns its focus to rival Ateneo de Manila University (3-2) on September 6 at 12 p.m., riding a five-game winning streak.

For FEU, Saavedra tallied 21 points on 19 attacks and two blocks, while Lirick Mendoza chipped in 17 markers, including a game-high seven blocks. The Tamaraws (3-1) aim to bounce back against University of Santo Tomas (3-1) earlier on the same day at 10 a.m.

La Salle’s revenge was as sweet as it was hard-earned—a statement victory that sends them to the semifinals brimming with confidence.