The FEU Lady Tamaraws. Handout photo

MANILA -- Far Eastern University (FEU) pummeled San Sebastian College-Recoletos into submission, 25-14, 25-19, 25-20, for a rousing start in its campaign in Pool D of the 2024 Shakey’s Super League (SSL) Collegiate Pre-season Championship Friday at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum.

Rookie Clarisse Loresco made her presence felt and connived with veteran Alyzza Devosora and Kyle Pendon as the Lady Tamaraws took care of business in one hour and 27 minutes despite some scary moments in the third frame.

READ: NU sets sights on 3rd straight SSL crown in pre-season championship

The 18-year-old middle blocker finished with nine points, four coming in the third set including a thunderous quick attack that halted the Lady Stags’ late fight back and pushed FEU to match point.

“Masaya po ako na maganda ang nilaro ko and thankful kay coach Tina (Salak) for giving me the opportunity na maipakita ko yung laro ko in today’s game,” the former FEU standout said.

Devosora and Pendon added seven markers each, Nikka Medina had six while Mitzi Panangin and Ann Asis scored five apiece.

FEU controlled the first two sets, keeping SSC-R at bay with solid net defense and precision attacks.

But just when the Lady Tamaraws, the National Invitationals runners-up, thought they already had the game in the bag after taking a 9-5 lead in the third, Kath Santos powered the Lady Stags’ 6-1 fightback to take an 11-10 lead.

Panangin and Pendon restored order with timely hits as FEU unleashed a scorching run to pull away, 23-16.

SSC-R saved two match points after Loresco’s quick attack before Devosora sealed the deal with a sharp crosscourt hit.

Santos led the Lady Stags with nine points while Divine Garcia and Juna Gonzales added five each.

Meanwhile, the league will hold its official opening ceremony in the same venue at 11 a.m. on Saturday.