THE Adamson Soaring Falcons blew away Far Eastern University’s seven-game winning skid to strengthen their hold for a spot in the Final Four of the UAAP Men’s Basketball tournament, 61-59 on Sunday at the FilOil Arena.
The Tamaraws kept a distance from the Falcons in the first period of the game with an eight-point lead, 17-9, but the Falcons was quick to close in the gap to two points, 32-30 at the half.
In the final two minutes of the game, Adamson was able to knock off the Tamaraw’s five-point lead. Jonathan Espeleta was able to nail two free throw shots that solidified their lead, 60-55 with 1:40 minutes left.
With FEU behind by a point, they could have made a comeback against the Falcons with three seconds remaining, but a travelling violation by Monbert Arong sealed the win for Adamson.
“We needed this win. We needed this type of game especially with the next games which are going to be tough for us,” said Adamson Coach Franz Pumaren, who with the team, looks at making it to the playoffs.
Adamson moved up to a 6-5 record and solidified their hold of fourth place in the standings, which strengthened their spot in the Final Four.
Sean Manganti led Adamson with 14 points, seven rebounds and four assists, while Rob Manalang added 12 points.
FEU dropped to an 8-3 win-loss record, but still held on to second place in the team standings. However, Ateneo (7-4) who beat the Tamaraws in the first round, is keeping it close with FEU.
Raymar Jose led the Tamaraws with 16 points and nine rebounds.
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