FEU-DN Steel found itself teetering on the edge of disaster once more on Sunday night.
Just a week after pulling off a dramatic come-from-behind victory against VNS, the Ultras were caught in a fierce battle with Savouge, who was determined to pull off a stunning comeback. Despite having built a 2-0 lead, FEU found themselves on the ropes, allowing Savouge to push the match to a decisive fifth set.
The Spin Doctors, building momentum, seemed poised to steal the win. But when FEU head coach Eddieson Orcullo called on rookie Luis Miguel to replace the misfiring Jelord Talisayan, it proved to be a game-changing decision.
“Mindset ko is bigay ko ‘yung one hundred percent ko kasi patapos naman na, wala nang susunod kaya binigay ko na lahat yung one hundred percent ko,” said Miguel, who was subbed into the match during the fourth set.
At the time, FEU was trailing 6-8 in the final set, but Miguel made an immediate impact, delivering a powerful kill over the Savouge blockers to narrow the gap. His quick work was followed by a crucial block from Doula Ndongala on Louis Gamban, tying the scores at 8-all.
The 19-year-old opposite spiker, making his presence felt when it mattered most, became the anchor of FEU’s offense. With both teams exchanging blow-for-blow, Savouge would eventually reach match point, leading 14-13 after a cross-court attack from Deanne De Pedro.
But the Ultras weren’t done yet. Rookie Mikko Espartero forced a deuce with a clever off-the-block hit before Miguel once again took charge, scoring back-to-back attacks that clinched the win for FEU. His five points, all in the fifth set, propelled the Ultras to a perfect 6-0 record in the Invitational Conference, powered by ArenaPlus, Mikasa, and Alpha Insurance & Surety Company.
Miguel, who had only stepped onto the court late in the match, was quick to credit his teammates and the coaching staff for his confidence. "Pag pinapasok kasi ako ni coach, binibigyan nila ako ng malaking tiwala kaya hindi ko sisirain ‘yun. ‘Yung ka-team ko na pinalitan ko, sinasabi rin nila sakin na ibawi ko sila, sabi ko sige ibabawi ko sila,” he shared.
It wasn’t the first time Miguel had delivered in a clutch situation. He had also played a crucial role in FEU's dramatic reverse sweep of the Griffins the week before, showcasing his growing influence on the team.
Orcullo praised his young star, emphasizing that the entire team must be ready to step up in times of need.
“Yung bawat isa kasi, hindi lucky bunot ang tawag namin. Talagang kailangan mag-step up kapag ka ‘yung kapatid nila ay down. Si Jelord [Talisayan], hindi naman down, pero nag-error kaya pinalitan. Then may nag-step up,” the coach explained.“Mindset ko is bigay ko ‘yung one hundred percent ko kasi patapos naman na, wala nang susunod kaya binigay ko na lahat yung one hundred percent ko."
