De La Salle University dismantled Far Eastern University with surgical precision, banking on poise and depth to take control of the V-League Collegiate Challenge men’s Finals.

The Green Spikers neutralized FEU’s firepower and seized every key stretch en route to a 25-18, 25-22, 25-23 sweep on Monday, October 6, at the FilOil Centre in San Juan. The win moved La Salle within a game of reclaiming the championship and exacting payback on the defending champions, who denied them the crown a year ago.

Key rotation switch swings the third set

La Salle’s cohesion was on full display from the opening serve, as they built early leads and kept FEU under pressure with well-timed defensive reads. Their balanced offense, anchored by Eugene Gloria and Emman Hernandez, prevented the Tamaraws from establishing any momentum.

The decisive moment came late in the third frame, with La Salle down 20-21. Head coach Jose Roque sent in setter NJ Bangit and opposite MJ Fortuna, a tactical shift that immediately paid dividends. Fortuna fired two quick kills off Bangit’s sets to give the Green Spikers the edge. After FEU saved one match point, Hernandez slammed the door shut with his 12th point of the match.

“Prepared ‘yung team in every aspect—physical, mental, emotional, spiritual,” said Roque. “Wala na akong masabi, sila na talaga ang nag-initiate ng intensity. Good job boys.”

Gloria, Ventura anchor composed La Salle attack

Gloria tallied 12 points and anchored the floor defense with eight digs and 13 excellent receptions, while Ventura also chipped in 12 markers built on 11 kills. Their steady play kept FEU’s runs in check throughout the match.

Roque warned his team against complacency heading into Game 2 at the Dasmariñas Arena. “We have to be more consistent. The pressure is there because we’re one win away. Respect to FEU—they’ll come back. We have to prepare for their adjustments.”

Dryx Saavedra led all scorers with 15 points for the Tamaraws, while Lirick Mendoza added nine. But despite brief flashes of their title form, FEU struggled to match La Salle’s late-game execution.

Game 2 is set for Wednesday at 4 p.m., where La Salle will aim to finish the job and capture its second championship in three years.