Far Eastern University-DN Steel needed only 65 minutes to tighten its grip on the Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference semifinal race. The Tamaraws swept the Armed Forces of the Philippines, 25-16, 25-20, 25-10, on Thursday, November 12.

The win at Smart Araneta Coliseum was FEU-DN Steel’s third straight and lifted the Tamaraws to 5-2, tying them with Alpha Insurance for third place. They are coming off a 25-15, 25-16, 25-17 sweep of 3B on Wednesday.

FEU-DN Steel Eyes Semis Berth

The Tamaraws will try to extend the streak to four when they face Alpha Insurance on Nov. 18 at 3 p.m. at the Filoil EcoOil Centre. The matchup pits two teams tied for third place and could further shape the semifinal picture.

Head coach Eddieson Orcullo credited his players’ preparation for the straight-sets result. “Maganda kasi talagang tinrabaho ng mga boys ‘yung match ngayon kaya siguro naging straight sets ‘yung game,” he said.

The Tamaraws rested after Wednesday’s win over 3B but still held a morning workout on Thursday, a routine that is part of the team’s program.

Espartero Returns, Tamaraws Dominate

Mikko Espartero made an immediate impact in his return from an ankle injury, scoring a game-high 10 points, all on attacks. Amet Bituin and Xandrex Ragusta added nine points apiece, while Dryx Saavedra chipped in eight.

Setter Rhodson Du-ot orchestrated a balanced attack with 16 excellent sets. The Tamaraws led in attacks, 50-25, and held a 7-0 advantage in blocks to dictate the pace of the match.

The Cavaliers remained without top spiker Ranran Abdilla and closed their Invitational Conference campaign winless at 0-9. Pol Salvador led the Armed Forces of the Philippines with eight points, while Alfredo Pagulong added six.