Far Eastern University’s Dryx Saavedra in action against National University in the UAAP Season 87 men’s volleyball Finals. Photo from Mark Demayo, ABS-CBN News.

MANILA (UPDATED) — Far Eastern University is a win away from clinching the UAAP Season 87 men's volleyball championship.

The Tamaraws took a huge step towards reclaiming their place at the top of the mountain after stunning five-peat seeking National University, 22-25, 25-22, 13-25, 25-22, 15-13, in their Finals Game 1 faceoff on Mother's Day at the Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City.

Dryx Saavedra posted 25 points on 21 attacks, three blocks, and an ace to lead FEU's charge, while Amet Bituin and Mikko Espartero followed with 16 markers, four digs, and three receptions, and 10 points, 26 receptions, and three digs, respectively.

"Gutom kami," said Tams head coach Eddieson Orcullo after their victory. "Yung gutom kasim minsan ang daming nagagawa."

"Alam mo kung yung preparation, kung paano mo gagawin kung talagang gusto mo yung isang bagay. Yun nga ang usapan namin, na pilitin nating kunin kasi prepared naman tayo sa lahat ng mangyayari," he continued.

As FEU was ahead by a point in the extension, 11-10, NU decided to field in Jeffe Gallego and Jan Abanilla, but the pair committed two crucial errors which pushed the Tamaraws' lead to three, 13-10.

Buds Buddin and Greg Ancheta helped the Bulldogs to cut their deficit, 13-12, but the former committed a service error which put the Morayta-based hitters at match point.

Bituin went on to close the door on NU with his game-sealing hit.

FEU now has a virtual twice-to-beat advantage over their Jhocson Street-based counterparts, and a win in Game 2 will allow the Tamaraws to clinch their 26th title in their division.

On the other hand, Leo Ordiales' 23 points went for naught as NU absorbed its first Finals loss since Season 79. 

Also showing up for the Bulldogs were Jade Disquitado (17 points, 17 receptions, eight digs), the injured Buddin (12 points, five digs, three receptions), and Ancheta (21 excellent sets, two points, two digs).

Game 2 of the Best-of-3 series is on Wednesday, May 14, 1:00 p.m., at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.

RELATED VIDEO: