By Krizza Gabrielle Tabora
Far Eastern University (FEU) Lady Tamaraws kicked off their University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) Season 89 women’s basketball tournament with a narrow victory over De La Salle University (DLSU) Lady Archers, 76-71, earlier today, September 30, at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.
The green-and-gold squad struggled with a slow start in the opening quarter despite multiple points from co-captain Amyah Español and shooting guard MJ Manguiat, 9-16.
However, Manguiat and Shane Salvani sparked a nine-point run to snatch the scoring advantage from the Lady Archers, 18-16.
Entering the second frame, the Morayta-based squad sustained its momentum behind multiple two-pointers from Salvani and a layup from Victoria Pasilang, 27-20.
Despite holding a seven-point cushion, the Lady Tamaraws failed to contain DLSU’s Favour Ojo, who delivered three back-to-back baskets to narrow the gap to one, 27-26.
The two teams immediately went point-for-point, with FEU’s EJ Lopez and Manguiat contributing one three-pointer apiece, 37-39.
During the third quarter, Español, Manguiat, and Pasilang delivered several points to help extend the lead, 52-47.
However, FEU struggled to stop Lady Archers Ojo, Kyla Go, and Princess Villarin, bringing the game to a 53-53 deadlock.
A crucial free throw by Elaine Patio eventually restored the advantage for the Lady Tamaraws, 56-55.
In the final frame, the Morayta-based squad built a cushion behind a Manguiat jumper, 62-58.
Despite DLSU’s efforts, clutch free throws from Patio and Pasilang ultimately sealed the 76-71 victory for FEU.
During the post-game conference, green-and-gold squad head coach Raiza Palmera-Dy expressed that the team remains discontent and will continue to aim for more after this win.
“I’m not surprised with the way they played today. But again, my standards or our standards are not yet there. We are happy but we are not content,” she stated.
Moreover, the lead tactician emphasized key adjustments as the Lady Tamaraws’ season progresses.
“Number one ‘yung defense namin. We will break this down and point out ‘yung mga lapses namin on defense. And then on the offensive side we’re still not running through the whole system… So that’s the thing we need to improve moving forward,” Palmera-Dy stated.
Español earned Player of the Game honors with 18 points, eight rebounds, nine steals, and one assist. Manguiat followed closely with 17 points, two rebounds, four steals, and four assists.
Aiming to extend their win card, FEU is set to face University of the Philippines on Sunday, October 4, at the Philsports Arena in Pasig City.
(Photo by Jhanraine Manansala/FEU Advocate)