The Green Archers failed to secure second place at the end of the first round as they lost to the Adamson Falcons 68-70. In a battle of two defense-minded squads, it was the more experienced Falcons that showed more grit and desire to win despite trailing by 7 at the start of the final period.
La Salle hung tough with Adamson throughout the match. It was just unfortunate that the team committed several lapses on both ends during the last few minutes of the game that enabled the Falcons to comeback. Unlike the UST game last week, the Archers showed signs of agitation when the opposition inched their way back into the game. Of course, the missed free throws did us in as well.
The Falcons played the Archers well defensively especially in the fourth quarter. They completely took the rhythm out of our team’s offense with their 2-3 zone. They also handled the ball well which prevented La Salle from effectively executing their usual fastbreak attack and converting on turnovers.
Despite the loss, La Salle has proven that they have what it takes to compete with the heavy favorites. Except for the NU game, they could have won the other two matches had they gotten the right breaks down the stretch. The Green Archers were never “blown out” in any of their losses and this shows what kind of character this young team has now.
The season is far from over. Currently at 4th place, the Archers are still in a good position to improve their performance and vie for a final four slot.
Box Scores
DLSU 68 – Dela Paz 13, Webb 10, Tolentino 10, Marata 10, Andrada 8, Mendoza 8, Atkins 3, Tampus 2, Paredes 2, Villanueva 2, Vosotros 0, Elorde 0, Ferdinand 0
AdU 70 – Colina 16, Camson 15, Alvarez 12, Stinett 10, Nuyles 7, Galinato 5, Canada 3, Lozada 2, Manyara 0 , Etrone 0, Brondial 0, Cabrera 0
Quarter scores 18-15;32-32;59-52-68-70