By Aimerose C. Atienza

Far Eastern University (FEU) Tamaraws finished their first game with a tough loss against the Ateneo de Manila University (AdMU) Blue Eagles, 70-79, in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) Season 85 men’s basketball tourney held at the Mall of Asia (MOA) Arena in Pasay City today, October 2.

The low defensive execution made the FEU Tamaraws trail by as much as ten points early in the match, but they managed to redeem themselves after creating a 14-zero run during the second quarter, 30-24.

The lead of the Tamaraws was snatched after AdMU gunner Forthskie Padrigao pulled up treys which the Morayta dribblers failed to retrieve until the end of the game, 70-79.

During the post-game interview, FEU Assistant Coach Eric Gonzales mentioned that they are still satisfied with the effort and response of the team to the system set by Head Coach Olsen Racela.

“No question about the effort… Nagpapasalamat kami kasi receptive sila sa teaching, they are making good decisions. ‘Yun lang naman talaga ‘yung gusto ni Coach Olsen eh (We are thankful because they are receptive to the teaching, they are making good decisions. That is only what Coach Olsen wants),” Coach Gonzales said.

Sophomore guard Patrick Sleat chipped in 17 points, generating nine markers in the latter half of the game to keep close with the Blue Eagles.

Sleat also acknowledged during the post-game conference that he still has to improve his defensive stance for the team.

“Sa tingin ko, marami pang kailangan i-improve sa laro ko, especially sa defensive ends of the game (I think that there are still a lot of things that I have to improve in my play, especially on the defensive ends of the game),” Sleat stated.

FEU Team Captain LJay Gonzales also produced 19 points with a 71.4% field goal percentage from beyond the arc. 

The Tamaraws will seek their first win of the season against the University of the East Red Warriors at the PhilSports Complex in Pasig City on October 5.

(Photo by Ralph Mari Castro/FEU Advocate)