FEU escape past vastly-improved NU Bulldogs

The National University Bulldogs who has just beaten UAAP 73 host DLSU Green Archers last Thursday almost pulled another upset, this time at the expense of title favorite Far Eastern University Tamaraws, but it was the experience and determination of the latter that has prevailed in Saturday’s Basketball action at the Philsports Arena in Pasig city.

The Bulldogs (not an “underdog” anymore)  has over-enjoyed their seven point lead in the last quarter as they failed to sustain the momentum on their side after a series of unanswered shots by the Tams. Reil Cervantes’ tip in at 2 minutes and 25 seconds remaining in the game clock cut the lead  to 2 points, thus 70-68. FEU tasted the lead back when RR Garcia shot a cold-blooded three pointer and successful charities thereafter sealed off the match in favor of the unbeaten Tamaraws.

Coach Glenn Capacio admitted that the team did not play well but still they were happy to win it against a team who has nothing to lose, considering that the Tams is the number one team on-paper.

With the second consecutive victory, FEU claims the solo lead of the team standing (2-0). Noteworthily, The Tams’ 2-0 start was their first since winning the UAAP Basketball Championship back in 2005.

Scores:

FEU 76 — Cervantes 20, Garcia 18, Romeo 11, Ramos 6, Cawaling 5, Bringas 4, Sanga 4, Knuttel 4, Noundou 2, Exciminiano 2, Mendoza 0, Cruz 0.

NU 72 — Hermosisima 23, Khobuntin 14, Terso 11, Mbe 8, Baloran 8, Ponferrada 5, Magat 2, Javillonar 1, Ludovice 0, Tungcul 0, Singh 0.

Quarters: 21-14; 37-36; 54-56; 76-72.

Photo via FEU TamBayan