Mandaluyong city: Far Eastern University (FEU) prevailed over Mapua University, 25-19, 25-22, 25-15, to kick off its title defense in the V-League Collegiate Challenge at Gameville Central Park in Mandaluyong City on Saturday.

According to Philippines News Agency, Mikko Espartero led the Tamaraws with 14 points on 13 attacks and a block. He also had two digs and five receptions. Newly installed captain Dryx Saavedra chipped in 13 points and nine digs, while starting setter Rhodson Du-ot made 20 excellent sets and five digs. "Perhaps the players just prefer to have good movement, solid defense, and effective counter-attacks. We probably just need to clean up our serve reception; that's where we'll focus," Tamaraws head coach Eddieson Orcullo said after the match.

Ar-Jay Ramos finished with 19 points, 14 receptions, and nine digs for Mapua, which slipped to 0-3. FEU will face the De La Salle - College of Saint Benilde Blazers at 10 a.m. on Sunday, while the Cardinals will battle the National University Bulldogs in their rescheduled match at 3 p.m. on Wednesday.

Meanwhile, De La Salle University defeated Arellano University, 25-21, 25-21, 25-20. Cameroonian outside hitter Issa Ousseini scored 18 points on 14 attacks and four blocks in the one-hour-and-21-minute match. "All the games, whether we win or lose, we're just trying to make all the systems work. We're trying to perfect it every day. Our team is 30 percent seniors and 30 percent juniors, so there's a gap. I told them, let's clear our responsibilities. If we know our responsibilities, that will be the common denominator," said coach Babes Castillo, a former Ateneo girls' head coach.

Rui Ventura contributed 13 points, while libero Jules Serrano had 12 digs and 11 receptions for La Salle, now sporting a 2-1 slate. CJ Dominguito scored 18 points for the Chiefs, who took their second loss against two wins.