Final Four-bound National University is looking to secure the first twice-to-beat berth as it tackles Far Eastern University in the UAAP Season 86 women’s volleyball tournament on Wednesday, April 24, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. 

Wrapping up their respective elimination round campaign, the Lady Bulldogs and the Lady Tamaraws lock horns in the final offering of the weekday action at 4 p.m. before also-ran Ateneo Blue Eagles and Adamson Lady Falcons meet at 2 p.m.

NU rose as top seed in the second round as it remained unbeaten in its last six outings to improve 11-2 in the standings which forged a three-way tie with defending champion De La Salle and University of Santo Tomas. 

A win for the Lady Bulldogs does not only mean another rare second round sweep, but also earns them an outright twice-to-beat advantage with the Lady Tamaraws playing spoiler in the scenario. 

Another important game ensues on Saturday, April 27, as La Salle and UST face each other to determine who will claim the last semifinal bonus and set the stage for the final standings. 

The trio of Bella Belen, Alyssa Solomon and Vange Alinsug has been consistent all playoffs long, taking turns in leading while carrying the bulk of the offensive fight.   

However, the Lady Tamaraws (9-4) are equally in peak form at the same time as they ride on the crest of their own five-game winning streak. 

FEU suffered a nasty straight set loss against La Salle in the second round opener before timely flexing might in its last five victories which includes a massive upset win over UST. 

Rookie Faida Bakanke, who was only averaging nine points in the first round, has been hitting the marks at the right time with brilliant performances. 

The result doesn’t really affect FEU’s standings in any way as it is already locked in at the No. 4 spot, but gaining confidence weighs much more in its Final Four campaign. 

Meanwhile, Ateneo (4-9) and Adamson (3-10) are hoping to close out a sorry season on a bright note. 

With no actual breakthroughs to make for themselves, Ateneo continued to cut its season short. Only this time under the guidance of its new head coach Sergio Veloso. 

Meanwhile, the Lady Falcons completely crumbled following the departure of their key players last season who all went pro. 

After their impressive Final Four appearance in Season 85, Adamson was almost unresponsive throughout the eliminations. 

Playing for pride for one last time this season, no side is surely backing down easily.