La Salle, FEU conclude first round with a deadlock

c/o UAAP

UAAP Season 87 Collegiate Women’s Football Tournament Standings

FEU 10 points (+6 GD)

DLSU 10 points(+5)

UP 4 points (-3)

Ateneo 3 points (-4)

UST 1 point (-4)

Men's Football Matches on Sunday at the UP Diliman Football Stadium

2 p.m. - UST vs DLSU

4:30 p.m. - UP vs UE

7 p.m. - Adamson vs FEU

JUDIE Rose Arevalo’s equalizer earned Far Eastern University a 1-1 draw against De La Salle University in the UAAP Season 87 Collegiate Women’s Football Tournament on Wednesday at the UP Diliman Football Stadium.

Arevalo, the Season 86 Rookie of the Year, headed the ball home in the 78th minute past La Salle goalkeeper Jessica Marie Pido to save the defending champion a hard-fought point in both teams’ top of the table clash.

“Yung understanding namin sa play dun sa loob at dun sa labas ng box — yun yung nagiging problem kaya hindi kami nakakapag-convert ng chances,” said Dimzon. “Also, La Salle played well because they pressed the players. They know yung strengths and weaknesses ng FEU so that’s why in the first half they were able to dominate yung play but naka-adjust yung FEU.”

After a goalless first half, it was La Salle that took the lead by taking advantage of a mishap from the FEU defense. National team striker Shai del Campo drew first blood for the visitors by scoring a tap-in in the 68th minute while being unmarked at the back post.

Lyka Teves then had a chance to double La Salle’s lead with a free kick, which FEU goalkeeper Yasmin May Elauria denied.

Following Arevalo’s leveler, the Lady Tamaraws had an opportunity to win the match but Tolentin headed the ball over during stoppage time.

“Sa result na nakita namin, happy kami,” said La Salle deputy Jun Mark Saraga, who led the Lady Booters as head coach Alvin Ocampo was suspended for getting two yellow cards in their last game against Ateneo de Manila University.

“Deserve ni Shai (makuha yung first goal niya of the season) kasi sa lahat ng tinakbo niya and sa lahat ng opportunity na nandun siya and then yung right moment na yun — deserve niya yun yung goal na yun.”

FEU and La Salle are first and second place respectively in the standings at the end of the first round with 10 points each but the former gets the top spot due to a superior goal difference of plus-6 to the latter’s plus-5.

UP throttles Ateneo anew in Battle of Katipunan

c/o UAAP

UAAP Season 87 Collegiate Men’s Basketball Tournament

*DLSU 10 1

*UP 9 1

UE 6 4

UST 5 6

AdU 4 7

FEU 3 7

Ateneo 3 8

NU 2 8

*Final Four

Games on Sunday at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion)

8 a.m. - NUNS vs UE (JHS)

10 a.m. - FEU vs UE (Women)

12 p.m. - FEU vs UE (Men)

3:30 p.m. - UP vs NU (Men)

6:30 p.m. - UP vs NU (Women)

University of the Philippines asserted its mastery over archrival Ateneo de Manila University with a 28-point beatdown, 75-47, to boost their hunt for a twice-to-beat incentive in the UAAP Season 87 Collegiate Men’s Basketball Tournament on Wednesday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

With their third consecutive win, the Fighting Maroons solidified their hold of solo second place with a 9-1 card, gaining a three-game cushion over the 6-4 UE Red Warriors for the second seed.

The victory also allowed UP to flex its might over its Katipunan neighbors. Not only did the Fighting Maroons replicate their 77-61 first round win over the Blue Eagles last Sept. 7, but UP also extended their winning streak over Ateneo to four games dating back to the second round and semifinals of Season 86.

After absorbing their worst loss in the Tab Baldwin era, the Blue Eagles’ Final Four hopes further dimmed after dropping to solo seventh place with a 3-8 slate. The game also marked Ateneo’s worst defeat in nine years since a 64-88 decision to Far Eastern University in Season 78 last September 6, 2015.

“For me, I would really learn a lot [from Tab Baldwin]. We know the program Tab has for Ateneo. We cannot approach the game relaxed, we really need to prepare for it,” said head coach Goldwin Monteverde after UP completed a head-to-head elims sweep of Ateneo. “During the course of the game, it’s not like things would fall into place, you should be able to react against his tactics.”

UP bucked a slow first quarter start, turning a slim 17-15 advantage to a comfortable 37-21 cushion thanks to a dominant 20-6 second frame surge, capped by a layup from Jacob Bayla and a long two-pointer from Gerry Abadiano.

The Fighting Maroons opened the third quarter with another dominant run, scoring 15 straight points to take a commanding 26-point lead, 54-28, and further display its dominance over a struggling Blue Eagles side.

A late layup by Bayla in the payoff period further pushed UP’s advantage to a game-high 30-point margin, 75-45, to seal its ninth win in ten outings.

“We adapted to the changing defense of Ateneo. The team was able to adapt right away, we were able to move the ball, and at the same time, we were able to get the ball inside, which is one of our strengths also,” Monteverde added.

Francis Lopez enjoyed an efficient outing with 20 points on 7-of-9 from the field to go along with five rebounds, one steal, and one block, while Quentin Millora-Brown tallied 11 points, 10 rebounds, and a block.

Bayla contributed eight points, six rebounds, one steal, and one block, while Reyland Torres posted an all-around statline with seven points, four rebounds, four assists, and one steal. Gani Stevens continued his consistent play with seven points on 3-of-3 shooting and three rebounds.

Looking ahead, the Fighting Maroons look to further solidify its bid for a twice-to-beat advantage when they clash against the National University Bulldogs on Sunday, Nov. 3, at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion.

Koon paced Ateneo in the losing effort with nine points, one rebound, and one steal but committed five turnovers, while Shawn Tuano posted eight points, one rebound, one assist, and one steal.

The Blue Eagles’ highly-prized rookie duo struggled in their second ‘Battle of Katipunan’ outing as Jared Bahay was limited to six points on 2-of-12 shooting to go along with five assists, three rebounds, and one steal, while Kristian Porter chipped in four points but still contributed 10 rebounds and a steal.

Ateneo aims to reignite their slim Final Four hopes in an all-important match against the FEU Tamaraws on Saturday, Nov. 9, at the SMART Araneta Coliseum.

The Scores

UP (75) – Lopez 20, Millora-Brown 11, Bayla 7, Torres 7, Stevens 7, Abadiano 6, Belmonte 5, Fortea 5, Alarcon 4, Cagulangan 2, Felicilda 0, Ududo 0, Briones 0, Torculas 0, Alter 0, Walker 0.

Ateneo (47) – Koon 9, Tuano 8, Bongo 7, Bahay 6, Porter 4, Balogun 4, Espina 3, Espinosa 2, Lazaro 2, Dela Cruz 2, Asoro 0, Quitevis 0, Reyes 0, Gamber 0, Edu 0.

Quarterscores: 17-15, 39-28, 66-40, 75-47

UP, UST battle to a deadlock

c/o UAAP

Men's Football Matches on Sunday at the UP Diliman Football Stadium

2 p.m. - UST vs DLSU

4:30 p.m. - UP vs UE

7 p.m. - Adamson vs FEU

JUDY Mae Prado scored a precious leveler to earn University of Santo Tomas a 1-1 draw against University of the Philippines in the UAAP Season 87 Collegiate Women’s Football Tournament on Thursday at the UP Diliman Football Stadium.

Prado, a midfielder out of Vigan, Ilocos Sur, put the ball at the back of the net in the 57th minute to score the Lady Booters’ first goal of the season and earn them their maiden point of the campaign.

“Kase from the bench siya, so we try to rotate players sa mga past games kase parang kumakapa siya sa match fitness ulit after a long break bit today,” said Coach Marjo Allado.”Yung goal niya nagbigay ng kumpyansa sa kanya.”

UP initially drew first blood in the match thanks to Anya Fuentes’ 35th-minute opener. However, the Fighting Maroons failed to capitalize in their chances after the halftime break. Forward Bianca Martina Torres had two attempts to put her name on the scoresheet, only for UST goalkeeper Lizlie Garcia to deny her both times.

Prado had another chance to score late in the contest but she failed to convert the tap-in. UP’s Maria Van Ommeren could have scored a dramatic late winner for the Fighting Maroons with a minute left in regular time, but Garcia was there again to save UST.

“The team is getting better and better,” said Allado. “Especially yung mga goal against samin is di gaano kalaki, puro 1-0. So today yung first goal ng girls na to nag bigay sa kanila ng ice breaker, ng confidence no and hopefully sa second round maka-score pa kami ulit.”

UST finished the first round in last place with one point and a minus-4 goal difference. On the other hand, UP remained in third place with four points and a minus-3 GD.

Adamson keeps flickering postseason hopes alive

c/o UAAP

Games on Sunday at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion

8 a.m. - NUNS vs UE (JHS)

10 a.m. - FEU vs UE (Women)

12 p.m. - FEU vs UE (Men)

3:30 p.m. - UP vs NU (Men)

6:30 p.m. - UP vs NU (Women)

ADAMSON University snapped its five-game losing streak by putting on a defensive masterclass against University of the East, taking a 45-37 victory to revive its UAAP Season 87 Collegiate Men’s Basketball Final Four hopes on Wednesday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

AJ Fransman gained the hot hand at the right time for the Soaring Falcons, scoring eight points as the Soaring Falcons launched a 10-0 run to start the fourth quarter, taking a 43-32 lead.

The Red Warriors could not recover, with Precious Momowei finally scoring the team’s first basket of the quarter with a layup at the 4:03 mark.

With this victory, Adamson secured its first win of the second round, improving to a 4-7 record and moving up to fifth place, just a game behind fourth place University of Sto. Tomas (5-6).

“Of course, we're thankful that we won. Akala ko ang ghost month October eh, muntik na kami ma-zero for the month of October so it's good that we're able to get the win towards the end of the month,” said Soaring Falcons head coach Nash Racela.

“This is something that we really need. If, I'd say our players were doing their part even with those losses that we had, that five straight losses that we had, pero sa’min namin just continue on doing the right things and eventually you'll get that win,” he added.

Fransman, a transferee from Enderun, only had a point in the first half but finished with a career-high 14 points, built on three triples, to go along with nine rebounds for Adamson.

Matt Erolon came through with 14 points as well to go along with four assists, while Cedrick Manzano ended with a double-double performance of 12 points and 11 rebounds laced with two steals.

The Soaring Falcons clamped down on UE, holding them to just two field goals and five points in the fourth quarter, including a scoreless stretch in the first six minutes. The win allowed them to avenge their first round loss against the Red Warriors, a heartbreaking 63-62 defeat last October 6.

Adamson will face National University next on November 10 at 2:00 p.m. at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

The Soaring Falcons’ pesky defense held Precious Momowei to just 12 points on a 5-of-13 shooting clip and a total of nine turnovers. He also had 17 rebounds and three steals, while Wello Lingolingo was limited to just five markers.

The 6-foot-9 Nigerian center, who scored all of UE’s five points in the fourth, was averaging 13.22 points per game, while the third-year sniper had per game counts of 9.67 points for the Red Warriors.

Devin Fikes added nine points in the loss, while John Abate had eight markers and five boards.

The Red Warriors’ 37-point output was the lowest since Far Eastern University was held to 39 points in a lopsided loss to National University on September 25, 2019.

This game also marked the lowest combined score (82 points) since National University defeated Adamson, 62-25, (87 points) on July 25, 2014, with the Falcons registering the lowest scoring output in league history.

The Red Warriors remain in third place with a 6-4 record and will aim to bounce back against Far Eastern University on Sunday at 12:00 p.m. at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion.

The Scores:

AdU (45) – Erolon 14, Fransman 14, Manzano 12, Montebon 3, Anabo 2, Calisay 0, Ramos 0, Yerro 0, Barasi 0, Mantua 0, Ojarikre 0.

UE (37) – Momowei 12, Fikes 9, Abate 8, Lingolingo 5, Maga 2, Spandonis 1, J. Cruz-Dumont 0, Galang 0, H. Cruz-Dumont 0, Mulingtapang 0, Finney 0, Wilson 0, Malaga 0, Go 0, Robles 0.

Quarterscores: 13-12, 22-19, 33-32, 45-37

Ateneo holds off UP, sends Adamson into Final Four

c/o UAAP

UAAP Season 87 Collegiate Women’s Basketball Tournament

*NU               9    0

*UST             9    1

*AdU             8    3

Ateneo        6    5

UP               3    7

FEU             2    7

DLSU          2    8

UE               1    9

*Final Four

Games on Sunday at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion

8 a.m. -  NUNS vs UE (JHS)

10 a.m. - FEU vs UE (Women)

12 p.m. - FEU vs UE (Men) 

3:30 p.m. - UP vs NU (Men)

6:30 p.m. -  UP vs NU (Women)

Ateneo de Manila University maintained its grip on fourth place in the UAAP Season 87 Collegiate Women’s Basketball Tournament by dispatching University of the Philippines, 75-66, in a rivalry match on Wednesday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

The Blue Eagles once again leaned on the brilliance of reigning MVP Kacey dela Rosa, who nearly tallied a 20-20 outing with 28 points and 19 rebounds for her 11th double-double of the season to go along with five blocks, two assists, and two steals. 

Ateneo improved their record to 6-5, creating a comfortable two-and-a-half game cushion of the Fighting Maroons, who now sit at 3-7 with four games remaining in the elimination round. 

With UP's seventh defeat, Adamson University officially secured the third Final Four ticket in the women’s division, marking the Lady Falcons' return to the postseason for the first time since Season 82 (2019).

“A win is a win. We try to focus on what we can control. For us, the target is to win three of the last four, and we got two wins now. Hopefully, we can start getting a little bit of momentum,” Ateneo head coach LA Mumar said. “We were terrible today; I’m happy with the win, don’t get me wrong, but hopefully we can polish some things moving forward.”

Kaye Pesquera gave UP a brief lead in the fourth quarter with an inside shot, making it 48-47. However, Ateneo responded with a decisive 16-3 run, powered by contributions from Gracie Batongbakal, Sarah Makanjoula, Kai Oani, and Dela Rosa, stretching their advantage to 63-51 with 6:25 left on the clock.

Though UP narrowed the gap with a Louna Ozar three-pointer, a layup from Alexandra Mendoza, and another triple from Pesquera, bringing the score to 63-60, Ateneo quickly regrouped. The Blue Eagles scored eight consecutive points, pushing their lead to 71-60 and securing their sixth victory in 11 outings.

This win also reinforced Ateneo’s dominance over their Katipunan rivals, having previously defeated the Fighting Maroons convincingly, 79-68, in their first-round opener on September 8.

“We’re very fortunate to win the game. A win is a win. You have to credit UP, they came up with a great game plan against us. They really prepared for us. They really triggered our weaknesses, so we have to learn from this,” Mumar added.

Season 86 Mythical Five member Junize Calago contributed 14 points, four rebounds, four assists, and one block but committed 10 turnovers, while Oani chipped in nine points, six assists, and two rebounds. 

Batongbakal enjoyed an efficient outing with eight points on 3-of-5 shooting to go along with six rebounds and an assist, while Makanjoula contributed eight points, four rebounds, three blocks, one assist, and one steal. 

Looking ahead, Ateneo aims to secure its third straight victory against a struggling Far Eastern University team on Saturday, November 9, at the SMART Araneta Coliseum. 

Pesquera paced the Fighting Maroons in the losing effort with 17 points, seven rebounds, six assists, and two steals, while Ozar tallied 16 points, eight rebounds, five assists, and four steals. 

Shanina Tapawan scored 10 points on 66.7-percent from the field to go along with four rebounds, two assists, and one steal, while Mendoza chipped in five points, four rebounds, and two steals. 

Meanwhile, UP will fight to keep its slim Final Four hopes alive in a matchup against the undefeated National University on Sunday, November 3, at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion.

The Scores:

Ateneo (75) - Dela Rosa 28, Calago 14, Oani 9, Batongbakal 8, Makanjoula 8, Villacruz 8, Villacruz 3, Cancio 3, Aquirre 2, Eufemiano 0, Angala 0, Cruza 0.

UP (66) - Pesquera 17, Ozar 16, Tapawan 10, Bariquit 8, Maw 6, Mendoza 5, Sauz 2, Vingno 2, Nolasco 0, Lozada 0, Jimenez 0, Solitario 0.

Quarterscores: 20-14, 32-31, 47-46, 75-66.

Adamson at cusp of postseason action

c/o UAAP

Games on Sunday at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion

8 a.m. - NUNS vs UE (JHS)

10 a.m. - FEU vs UE (Women)

12 p.m. - FEU vs UE (Men)

3:30 p.m. - UP vs NU (Men)

6:30 p.m. - UP vs NU (Women)

ADAMSON University cruised past University of the East, 66-48, for its third straight win in the UAAP Season 87 Collegiate Women’s Basketball Tournament on Wednesday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

With their third consecutive win, the Lady Falcons solidified their hold on third place with an 8-3 record, comfortably distancing themselves from the Ateneo Blue Eagles and the UP Fighting Maroons, who are at 5-5 and 3-6, respectively.

If UP falls to Ateneo later today, Adamson will clinch its first Final Four berth since Season 82 in 2019, when it finished as the third-seeded team with a 9-5 record before bowing out to FEU in the stepladder semifinals.

However, should UP pull off an upset, Adamson will need a win against the NU Lady Bulldogs in their next game to secure a spot.

“The school will remember you with the legacy you are going to leave. They care about who you are, but it’s about the legacy you’re gonna leave when you leave Adamson,” Adamson head coach Ryan Monteclaro said. “I know 10 years from now or 15 years from now, they’re gonna look at themselves na we made it despite going to the season ranked seventh or eighth.”

Elaine Etang, Kim Limbago, Cris Padilla, and Cheska Apag led a decisive 14-6 run in the third quarter, turning a narrow 35-31 lead into a 49-37 advantage heading into the final period. Malienne center Kamba Kone was the only scorer for UE during that stretch.

In the fourth quarter, Padilla’s late three-pointers extended Adamson’s lead to a game-high 19 points, sealing their third consecutive win and matching their 63-51 first-round victory over UE on October 6.

“To be honest, I’m not really impressed with how we played today. For a team trying to get to that level, you always try to challenge your team. I’m not taking away the fact that UE has a good program, but again, we are looking for the position to get into the Final Four,” Monteclaro added.

Padilla, the inaugural UAAP girls’ basketball MVP, enjoyed her best outing of the season with 17 points on 4-of-7 from beyond the arc to go along with three steals, two rebounds, and two assists. Etang had another all-around statline with 12 points, seven assists, four rebounds, and one steal.

Apag also had an efficient outing with nine points, five rebounds, three assists, and one steal, while Kem Adeshina chipped in seven points, seven rebounds, three steals, and one assist.

Adamson’s next challenge is against the undefeated National University on Sunday, November 10, at the SMART Araneta Coliseum.

Kone’s double-double efforts of 18 points and 11 rebounds went for naught as the Lady Warriors’ struggles continued after absorbing its sixth straight loss to remain at last place in the eight-team league with a 1-9 card.

Ganade scored 10 points on 4-of-8 shooting to go along with eight assists, four steals, and two rebounds, but committed 10 turnovers, while Lacayanga nearly tallied a double-double with eight points, nine rebounds, two steals, and one assist.

UE aims to end a six-game skid against Far Eastern University on Sunday, Nov. 3, at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion.

The Scores:

AdU (66) – Padilla 17, Etang 12, Apag 9, Adeshina 7, E. Alaba 5, Limbago 5, Ornopia 4, Mazo 3, Meniano 2, Agojo 2, Bajo 0, Manlimos 0, A. Alaba 0, Cortez 0, Delos Santos 0, Trabado 0.

UE (48) – Kone 18, Ganade 10, Lacayanga 8, Vacalares 4, Lumibao 4, Buscar 2, Yanez 2, Guillim 0, Cruz 0, Ronquillo 0.

Quarterscores: 19-8, 31-24, 49-37, 66-48

UE keeps unblemished record over UST

c/o UAAP

UAAP Season 87 Junior High School Basketball Tournament Standings

UE 9-0

FEU-D 6-2

UST 6-4

NUNS 5-4

DLSZ 4-4

Ateneo 4-4

ADU 1-7

UPIS 0-10

Games on Sunday at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion

8 a.m. -  NUNS vs UE (JHS)

10 a.m. - FEU vs UE (Women)

12 p.m. - FEU vs UE (Men)

3:30 p.m. - UP vs NU (Men)

6:30 p.m. -  UP vs NU (Women)

DESPITE a 14-day layoff, University of the East Junior showcased its trademark resilience, overcoming University of Santo Tomas in a thrilling 80-78 victory to stay unbeaten in the UAAP Season 87 Junior High School Basketball Tournament on Wednesday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

The Junior Warriors were supposed to take on the NUNS Bullpups last October 20 at UST Quadricentennial Pavilion but the game was rescheduled to November 3 due to the USTET exam.

“We came from a two-week break, so medyo naghabol kami ng laro,” said Junior Warriors head coach Andrew Estrella.

Unlike their commanding 69-51 win over the same Tiger Cubs team last September 8, the Junior Warriors had to dig deep this time around.

Gab Delos Reyes and Enrico Bungar led UE’s charge, helping the Junior Warriors stave off a fierce Tiger Cubs comeback powered by Dustin Bathan, who played a no-relief game and delivered an impressive 31 points, six rebounds, five assists, and three steals.

A dominant 20-12 third quarter gave UE the separation they needed, turning a one-point halftime lead into a 67-58 cushion heading into the fourth quarter.

However, UST did not go down easily, as Bathan’s personal nine-point run brought the game to a 78-all tie with just under two minutes remaining.

Delos Reyes ultimately clinched the win for UE, converting a go-ahead shot with 20.5 seconds left, while a missed layup by UST’s Jhon Canapi in the final seconds ensured the Junior Warriors’ ninth consecutive win and secured at least a playoff for the Final Four.

“Every game, whatever the result is, there’s always a lesson,” added Estrella.

Bungar, though limited to 12 points, added seven rebounds and five assists, while Oraa chipped in 11 points, five rebounds, and four assists.

Delos Reyes contributed significantly on both ends, finishing with 10 points, 12 rebounds, and five blocks.

Goodluck Okebata was also impactful, recording seven points, 13 rebounds, and multiple defensive stops.

The loss dropped the Tiger Cubs to a 6-4 record, still maintaining third in the standings but is now just half-a-game ahead of the Bullpups.

Andwele Cabañero was limited to 14 points on 4-of-16 shooting for UST, while UE’s defense held Canapi to 10 points on 33 percent shooting.

Miguel Jubilado added 13 points, six rebounds, and three steals but couldn’t prevent the narrow defeat.

The Tiger Cubs now have two weeks to regroup before their Nov. 13 matchup against NUNS, also at the same UST venue.

The Scores:

UE 80 - Bungar 12, Oraa 11, Garcia 10, Delos Reyes 10, Mesina 9, Panganiban 7, Okebata 7, Pascual 7, Orca 4, Ferreros 3.

UST 78 - Bathan 31, Cabeñero 14, Jubilado 13, Canapi 10, Guerrero 7, Villacarlos 2, Castro 1, Lim 0, Javier 0, Balague 0.

Quarterscores: 27-23, 47-46, 67-58, 80-78.

Finals rematch locked in for UAAP Women's Badminton

Ties on Wednesday at the Rizal Memorial Badminton Hall

Men's:

8 a.m. – NU vs Ateneo (Final)

8 a.m. – UP vs UST (Third-place match)

1 p.m. – UP vs Ateneo (Final)

1 p.m. – NU vs UST (Third-place match)

ATENEO De Manila University and University of the Philippines arranged a third straight championship showdown after taking down respective foes in the UAAP Season 87 Women’s Badminton Tournament Final Four on Tuesday at the Rizal Memorial Badminton Hall in Manila.

Rookie Althea Ocampo fueled the reigning champions Blue Eagles’ campaign for a fifth straight UAAP title, finishing the contest on a 3-2 decision over the National University Bullpups.

Meanwhile, the Fighting Maroons leaned on the prowess of third-year stalwart Anthea Gonzalez in sweeping the University of Santo Tomas Lady Shuttlers, 3-0, to secure an eighth Finals appearance in nine seasons.

The third consecutive installment of the Battle of Katipunan for the UAAP women’s badminton tiara is set for Wednesday at 1 p.m. in the same Malate venue.

Ocampo secured Ateneo’s 10th championship berth in 11 seasons following a 21-9, 21-9, win over Tia Bualat in the third and deciding singles rubber.

“Actually, ‘yung pagpasok ko po sa Ateneo is pressure po sa ‘kin kasi nga po I’m joining a champion team, Pero tinake ko ‘yung pressure na ‘yun at in-invert ko into something positive. Kasi kung magpapadala ako sa pressure, ‘yung team lang masisira,” said the 2024 Palarong Pambansa secondary girls’ gold medalist.

“Nagpe-pray lang po talaga ko na manalo ‘yung second doubles para ‘pag dating sa ‘kin, laruin ko lang po ‘yung best ko,” Ocampo added.

The reigning four-peat champions had to do it the hard way.

Ateneo bagged the first singles match with captain Mika De Guzman back in fold after two matchdays of absence. The Smash Pilipinas standout powered through 2024 Philippine Badminton Open Women’s Singles Finals rival, Ysabel Amora, 21-15, 21-17.

The Bulldogs snagged the lead with Karyll Rio and the pair of Jeya Von Pinlac and Andria Songcuan. Rio leveled the contest with a 21-19, 21-11 win over Feeby Ferrer, while Pinlac and Songcuan emerged victorious over De Guzman and Ocampo, 21-14, 21-13.

Ferrer then made amends for Ateneo, teaming up with fellow third-year standout Maxene Olango in a come-from-behind conquest of NU seniors Sarah Barredo and Gwyneth Desacola, 18-21, 21-16, 21-12, to set up Ocampo’s heroics.

On the other hand, Gonzalez and Kimberly Lao avenged their 22-24, 16-21 elimination-round loss to Marielle Alvarez and Patricia De Leon, winning it 21-19, 21-18 this time to secure UP a third straight Finals ticket.

“Nung una po kasi, kaunti lang po ‘yung time namin mag-practice na dalawa (ni Kimy); biglaan lang po talaga ‘yon. Kaya ‘yung unang laro po namin, pressured kami, kasi ‘yung mga tinuro sa ‘min bago lang rin sa ‘min,” said the Season 85 Rookie of the Year.

“Pero ‘to pong wins namin, importante po talaga ‘yung confidence. Paano ka mananalo kung hindi ka confident? Dapat talaga mas lamang ‘yun sa kaba. Hindi rin kayo mananalo kung sa sarili mo lang ikaw nagtitiwala, o sa teammate mo lang. Dapat lahat kayo gusto niyong lumaban; lahat kayo dapat gustong manalo,” she added.

The third-year stalwart, Gonzalez, opened the day with a victory against De Leon, 21-8, 21-11. Susmita Ramos doubled the advantage with a 21-12, 21-12 clinic past Reshane Nicor in the following singles match.

NU will battle UST in the third-place playoff at 1 p.m. on Wednesday.

Finals rematch set in UAAP Men's Badminton

c/o UAAP

Ties on Wednesday at the Rizal Memorial Badminton Hall

8 a.m. – NU vs Ateneo (Men's Gold Medal Tie)

8 a.m. – UP vs UST (Men's Bronze Medal Tie)

ATENEO and National University will meet again for a fourth straight championship after besting their respective Final Four foes in the UAAP Season 87 Men’s Badminton Tournament on Tuesday at the Rizal Memorial Badminton Hall in Manila.

Lyrden Laborte steered the Blue Eagles to a fourth consecutive Finals appearance following a 3-1 win over University of the Philippines.

The Bulldogs will have a chance for redemption from last season's defeat after defeating University of Santo Tomas, 3-0, in the other Final Four tie.

Ateneo will stake its title against undefeated NU at 8 a.m. on Wednesday at the same Malate venue.

The Bulldogs won over the Blue Eagles in Season 82 (2019) and 85 (2022) to complete a seven-peat before losing the crown last year

Laborte, the Blue Eagles captain started the comeback when he fended off the challenge of Fighting Maroons rookie Shan Clar in the second singles rubber, 21-17, 22-20.

Laborte then paired up with their newbie Robby Ramos to extend Ateneo’s reign, 21-14,16-21, 21-15, over Jelo Albo and Johann Abinales in the second doubles.

“At the start parang focused lang po talaga kami sa laro. We kept our presence of mind and we just put God in the center of our team no matter what. Ngayon nakuha na namin, na kahit down kami one game, we kept our spirits na ando’on pa rin,” said the UAAP Season 86 co-MVP.

“Yung NU, alam namin na mabigat na team since natalo nga kami (nung Sunday), pero kailangan naming isipin na kaya namin to. One point at a time, one game at a time. Kaya naman namin talaga basta maniwala lang kami,” shared Laborte.

Ateneo started at the back foot after Smash Pilipinas standout Albo took first blood for UP in a 21-19, 21-16 sweep of Lance Vargas.

The defending champions then went three of three starting with Laborte’s singles win.

Vargas made amends for his tight loss to Albo, pairing with former skipper Arthur Salvado Jr. in a significant stunner of the erstwhile unbeaten pair of Enzo Rivera and Mark Anthony Bernal, 21-18, 21-17, to set up the clincher.

On the other hand, the Bulldogs clinched their 12th consecutive Finals showdown with Season 85 co-MVP Solomon Padiz Jr. and the returning Jeno Cariño getting it done in the lone doubles match.

Padiz and Cariño pulled through for NU, taking the championship berth in a 21-19, 21-14 decision past UST’s Bien Miraflor and Lennox Cuilao.

Lanz Zafra and Mark Anthony Velasco set the sweep with similar two-setters in the two singles matches. Zafra dominated Cuilao, 21-13, 21-7, while Velasco made quick work of Francis Haroun Sarmiento, 21-6, 21-7.

“From the start, ang lagi ko lang sinasabi sa kanila na ‘yung consistency ng laro nila. All throughout the game, dapat kung ano ‘yung sinimulan nila nung una, dapat ganun pa rin sila. Hindi dapat bumababa,” said long-time Bulldogs head coach Jaime Llanes.

“Yung mga players ko in high spirits talaga. And from the start, alam mong gusto nilang bumawi,” he added.

UP and UST will play in the battle for third tiff at 8 a.m. on Wednesday.

UE seeking assured postseason shot

c/o UAAP

UAAP Season 87 Basketball Standings

Standings    W    L

Men

*DLSU          10    1

*UP               8    1

UE               6    3

UST             5    6

Ateneo        3    7

AdU             3    7

FEU             3    7

NU               2    8

Women

*NU               9    0

*UST             9    1

AdU             7    3

Ateneo        5    5

UP               3    6

FEU             2    7

DLSU          2    8

UE               1    8

JHS Boys

UE 8-0

FEU-D 6-2

UST 6-3

NUNS 5-4

DLSZ 4-4

Ateneo 4-5

ADU 2-7

UPIS 0-10

*Final Four

Games Wednesday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena

8 a.m. – UE vs UST (JHS)

10 a.m. – AdU vs UE (Women)

12 noon – Ateneo vs UP (Women)

2 p.m. – AdU vs UE (Men)

6:30 p.m. – Ateneo vs UP (Men)

UNIVERSITY of the East aims to move within one win of securing its first Final Four appearance in 15 years as it faces off against Adamson University in the UAAP Season 87 Collegiate Men’s Basketball Tournament at the SM Mall of Asia Arena today (Wednesday).

Holding third place with a 6-3 record, the Red Warriors are three and a half games ahead of three teams tied for fifth place, including the Falcons, who currently sit at 3-7.

Fresh off a crucial 74-58 victory over National University last Saturday, UE hopes to start a new winning streak and edge closer to a guaranteed playoff spot for the Final Four in their 2 p.m. match.

Meanwhile, Ateneo, sharing a 3-7 standing with Adamson and Far Eastern University, takes on Final Four-bound University of the Philippines in a 6:30 p.m. “Battle of Katipunan.”

Despite a mid-season slump, University of Santo Tomas clings to fourth place with a 5-6 record, one and a half games ahead of Ateneo.

The Blue Eagles, trailing UST, must play flawlessly to maintain their Final Four streak, which dates back to Season 77 (2014).

Ateneo’s two-game winning run ended last Saturday with a 65-80 loss to defending champion De La Salle, making this game critical to their playoff hopes.

With an 8-1 record, UP holds a two-game cushion over UE in the battle for the second twice-to-beat slot in the Final Four.

Already securing their sixth straight semifinal berth, the Fighting Maroons are focused on refining their gameplay to lock in a top-two finish.

“I think what's important is that everyone is on the same page, regardless of their minutes inside, long or short. Basta prepare lang kami, yung mindset namin and ma-execute yung lahat ng kailangan naming gawin sa loob,” shared assistant coach Christian Luanzon, Fighting Maroons coach Goldwin Monteverde's trusted offensive coach.

UE, eager to return to the Final Four for the first time since 2009, remains grounded even after their recent win.

Red Warriors head coach Jack Santiago emphasizes focus, saying, “Zero-zero pa rin kami. Knowing Adamson, they need to win a couple of games also. For sure, they are going to prepare for us.”

In the women’s division, Adamson eyes its first Final Four appearance since Season 82 (2019).

A victory over UE in their 10 a.m. matchup, along with a win by Ateneo over UP at 12 noon, would solidify their spot.

The Ateneo-UP game will also have significant implications for the last Final Four berth.

In Junior High School Boys’ action, the UE Junior Warriors look to shake off some rust after a 14-day break, facing the UST Tiger Cubs.

A win would secure at least a playoff spot in the Final Four.

Philippines set to hold first AFF Women’s Futsal Championships

c/o Philippine Football Federation

The Philippine Women's Futsal Team has kept themselves busy even with its relative anonymity compared to other sports.

Thanks to the support from the Philippine Football Federation, as well as the Henry Moran Foundation, a pool of players have been training at the Inspire Sports Academy in Laguna, which has since been boosted by the arrival of Vic Hermans as their head coach.

The Dutch futsal coaching legend has guided three countries into the FIFA Futsal World Cup, and is set to lead our Filipinas into play as the hosts for the inaugural edition of the FIFA Women's Futsal World Cup next year.

Fresh from their second-place finish at the PFF Tri-Nations Cup last year, they are ready for the next step of preparations after locking in an automatic berth for next year.

To help get the team ready, the Philippines will be hosting the inaugural AFF Women's Futsal Championship, which will take place at the Philsports Arena on November 16-21.

Said competition is a five-team tournament involving three of the top 25 teams in the FIFA Women's Futsal rankings.

Thailand is sixth overall, followed by Vietnam at eleventh and Indonesia at 24th. Capping the field is Myanmar at 37th.

Ranked 59th, the Philippines will kick off its participation against Myanmar on Opening Day. They follow that with their matchup against Thailand on the 17th.

After the bye, they will proceed to face off against Vietnam on the 19th, and cap off the round robin against Indonesia on the 20th.

All of the matches involving our countrymen will commence at 7pm.

If the team is lucky, they could play on the final day, which is slated to involve the third place game at 4pm and the final at 7pm.

UST cuts into FEU-Diliman's lead in UAAP high school chess

c/o UAAP

UAAP Season 87 High School Chess Standings:

Boys' Match Pts (Board Pts)

FEU-D 8.0 (14.0)

UST 6.0 (10.5)

ADU 4.0 (7.0)

Ateneo 2.0 (6.0)

DLSZ 0.0 (2.5)

Girls' Match Pts (Board Pts)

FEU-D 8.0 (13.5)

UST 6.0 (12.5)

ADU 4.0 (8.0)

NUNS 2.0 (6.0)

DLSZ 0.0 (0.0)

Games on Sunday at the Adamson Gym

Boys'

1 p.m. - Ateneo vs ADU / DLSZ vs FEU-D

Girls'

1 p.m. - NUNS vs DLSZ / UST vs FEU-D

WITH defending champion Far Eastern University-Diliman taking a bye in Round 5, University of Santo Tomas stepped into the spotlight, scoring impressive victories in both the boys' and girls' divisions of the UAAP Season 87 High School Chess Tournament on Sunday at the Adamson Gym.

In the girls' division, the Junior Tigress Woodpushers delivered a flawless performance, sweeping De La Salle Zobel 4-0 in Round 5. 

This dominant win kept UST close behind FEU-D, securing second place with six match points. 

UST's Daren Dela Cruz, Iana Sotaridona, Nathalie Liscano, and Alleana Gonzales each claimed victory over their DLSZ opponents Joedi Costes, Sarah Cabodil, Francesca Icay, and Ayana Montes, respectively.

The boys' division saw UST edge past fourth-running Ateneo High School with a narrow 2.5-1.5 victory. 

Sumer Oncita and Karlycris Clarito, Jr. outplayed Ateneo’s Aida Mejia and Yash Cayabyab, while John Cyrus Borce's draw with Jose Caro sealed the win for UST in Round 5. 

Luis Gabriel Gutierrez kept Ateneo competitive by defeating Jian Carlo Rivera on Board 4.

Adamson University also posted solid performances, securing the third spot in both divisions as they entered the season’s second half. 

In the boys' division, Jonver Acosta, Jian Bautista, and Bryce Bayani each earned victories over La Salle’s Nathan Navarro, Gian Marco Caguiat, and Christian Malabanan on Boards 2, 3, and 4, respectively, marking Adamson's second match win. 

Tyrhone Tabernilla kept the Junior Green Woodpushers on the board by defeating Baby Falcon Allan Dolfo on Board 1.

In the girls' division, Adamson narrowly triumphed over National University Nazareth School with a close 2.5-1.5 outcome. 

Christen Reyes and Ma. Christina Samarita led the charge, defeating Arena FIDE Master Ryien Bahita and Kyla Dalagan, while Florence Isabedra secured the victory by drawing against Sara Dalagan on Board 2. 

Jersey Marticio provided the Bullpups' only win, besting Lira Placer on Board 1.

The action in both divisions will pause for a week before resuming with Round 6 on November 3.

Defending champions stamp class to wrap UAAP collegiate chess first round

c/o UAAP

UAAP Season 87 Collegiate Chess Standings

Men Match Pts (Board Pts)

UST 8.0 (15.0)

UP 6.0 (11.5)

DLSU 6.0 (10.5)

FEU 5.0 (10.5)

Ateneo 4.0 (9.0)

ADU 1.0 (3.5)

Women Match Pts (Board Pts)

FEU 12.0 (20.5)

DLSU 10.0 (14.5)

NU 8.0 (13.0)

Ateneo 5.0 (11.5)

UST 4.0 (10.0)

UP 2.0 (8.0)

ADU 1.0 (6.5)

Games on Sunday at the Adamson Gym

Men's

1 p.m. - UST vs Ateneo / ADU vs FEU / DLSU vs UP

Women's

1 p.m. - Ateneo vs NU / UST vs ADU / DLSU vs UP

DEFENDING champion Far Eastern University completed a first-half sweep of the UAAP Season 87 Women’s Chess Tournament by securing their sixth consecutive victory with a decisive 3.5-0.5 win over Ateneo de Manila University in Round 7, held Sunday at the Adamson Gym.

The Lady Tamaraws have now scored at least three board points in all but one match, leading the standings with 12 match points.

In Round 7, Woman National Master Vic Glysen Derotas (6/6) claimed her sixth straight victory, outlasting Lexie Hernandez (4.5/6) in a 64-move English Opening marathon on Board 2.

Francheska Largo (4/4) also remained unbeaten, handing Glesit Tatoy (0/2) her second loss on Board 4.

Meanwhile, Woman National Master Mary Joy Tan (5/6) bested Ateneo's Alphecca Gonzales (1.5/4) on Board 3.

To close out the round, Woman National Master Mhage Sebastian (4.5/6) drew with Ma. Elayza Villa (4/6) on the top board.

In the men’s division, University of Santo Tomas asserted its dominance in Round 5 with a resounding 3.5-0.5 victory over previously undefeated University of the Philippines, strengthening their title defense.

The Male Woodpushers of UST finished the first half of the season with eight match points from four wins and one loss, establishing a gap over the Fighting Maroons, who is currently second with six match points.

UST’s victory was spearheaded by FIDE Master Christian Mark Daluz (5/5), who handed FIDE Master Stephen Pangilinan (3/5) his second loss with a 38-move masterclass on the top board.

Chester Reyes (2/3) earned his second straight win on Board 2, compelling Arena International Master Cyrus Francisco (2.5/5) to resign after just 30 moves of an English Opening.

Jan Clifford Labog (3/4) secured UST’s win with an unstoppable kingside attack that left Roderenz Adra (2.5/5) defenseless under time pressure on Board 3.

UP rookie Io Aristotle Calica (3.5/5) provided a glimmer of hope, remaining unbeaten in five matches as he drew with former league MVP Melito Ocsan Jr. (3/4) on Board 4.

In other men’s division action, FEU edged De La Salle University 2.5-1.5, staying within reach of a podium spot with five match points in fourth place.

The deciding match boiled down to FIDE Master John Merill Jacutina (3/5) and Angele Biete (4/5), whose game concluded in a draw after a marathon four-hour standoff.

FEU’s Round 5 triumph was secured by victories from Dale Bernardo (1.5/3) and Istralito Rilloraza (1/2) over Cyril Telesforo (1/5) and Arena International Master Jester Sistoza (1/2) on Boards 1 and 3.

La Salle’s Daniel John Lemi (3.5/5) recorded his team’s sole win by defeating Christian Olaybal (1/3) on Board 4.

Despite the setback, the Green Archers remain in third place with six match points.

On the women’s side, La Salle strengthened its podium bid with a 3-1 victory over Adamson University, moving to second place with 10 match points.

Woman National Master Francois Magpily (4/6), Arena Grandmaster Sara Olendo (3/6), and Checy Telesforo (2.5/4) secured wins over Angela San Luis (0.5/6), Christine Hernandez (0/2), and Phoebie Arellano (2.5/6) on Boards 1, 2, and 4, respectively.

The Lady Woodpushers’ only loss came on Board 3, where Rinoa Sadey (4/6) fell to Robelle De Jesus (3.5/5).

National University also recorded a Round 7 win in the women’s division with a commanding 3-1 performance against UST.

Natasja Balabbo (5/6) led the way by taking her fifth victory, prevailing over Precious Yecla (3/6) on Board 2.

Princess Ballete (1/2) and Jelaine Adriano (1/2) contributed wins on Boards 3 and 4 against Princes Oncita (2/4) and Jenny Tulo (0/2), respectively.

UST’s Josemier Panol (3.5/5) prevented a sweep by defeating Woman FIDE Master Allaney Doroy (3.5/6) on Board 1.

Meanwhile, in the men’s division, Ateneo earned its first win of the season with a 3-1 triumph over Adamson University in Round 5.

Paul Mathew Llanillo (2/5) defeated John Frederick Sunga (0/2) on Board 1, and Romeo Canino (2/5) secured a victory over Vince Arellano (0/2) on Board 2.

Knark Batislaong (3/5) scored a full point on Board 4 against John Rocel Simon (1/5), while Adamson’s Joshua Roque (1.5/5) won over Christopher Kis-ing (2/5) on Board 3 to avert a sweep.

The men’s division will resume with Round 6 on November 3, while the women’s division continues with Round 8 on the same date.

Ateneo, NU, UP seek return trips to UAAP Badminton Finals

c/o UAAP

Ties Tuesday at Rizal Memorial Badminton Hall

8 a.m. – Men's Final Four

NU vs UST / Ateneo vs UP

1 p.m. – Women's Final Four

UP vs UST / NU vs Ateneo

TOP seeds National University and University of the Philippines look to consolidate their unbeaten runs in the preliminary rounds of men’s and women’s divisions, respectively, when the UAAP Season 87 Badminton Tournament Final Four happens today (Tuesday) at the Rizal Memorial Badminton Hall.

The Bulldogs will take on the University of Santo Tomas Golden Shuttlers at 8 a.m., while the Fighting Maroons will face the UST Lady Shuttlers at 1 p.m.

The Final Four winners will advance to the one-off Final on Wednesday, while the losers will play in a third-place tie on the same day.

Jeno Cariño and Solomon Padiz Jr. secured the fifth straight win for NU this season and the top rank in the semis last Sunday. The pair pulled off a 14-21, 21-11, 21-16 comeback against Lyrden Laborte and Robby Ramos of Ateneo De Manila University.

“Para sa ‘min, talagang nilaban namin ‘tong second doubles ni Monchi to secure ‘yung Final Four slot na top one. Ine-aim talaga naming mag-top one kasi ‘pag nag top one kami, good things can happen,” said the former Ateneo Blue Eagle Cariño.

On the other hand, Susmita Ramos and Dianne Libaton reeled UP into a similar preliminary-round sweep and the No. 1 seed. The tandem remained unbeaten after last Sunday's 21-15, 22-20 conquest of Ateneo’s Althea Ocampo and Missy Cervantes.

“Gagawin po namin ‘yung lahat para maka-abot kami sa Final. Sabi nga ng coaches, nothing to lose and everything to gain. ‘Yung preparation naman namin, alam naman naming magiging worth it,” said the rookie Libaton.

Ateneo, the double champions from Season 86, will shoot for bounce-back victories on the other side of the Final Four to keep its reign alive.

The men’s squad will battle the UP Fighting Maroons at 8 a.m., while the women’s side will take on the NU Lady Bulldogs at 1 p.m.

Both the Ateneo and NU women's teams are hoping that their aces Mika de Guzman and Sarah Barredo, respectively,  are good to go for the do-or-die encounters as the duo missed last weekend's ties due to illness.

Ateneo locks in first round sweep in UAAP men's football

c/o UAAP

UAAP Season 87 Collegiate Men’s Football Tournament Standings

Ateneo 18 pts (+12)

FEU 10 pts (+6)

UP 10 pts (+5)

UST 9 pts (0)

DLSU 7 pts (-4)

UE 7 pts (-5)

ADU 0 pts (-14)

Women's Football Matches on Wednesday at UP Diliman Football Stadium

4 p.m. — UST vs UP

6:30 p.m. — FEU vs DLSU

A day after his 24th birthday, Leo Maquiling kept his nerves in check to lead Ateneo de Manila University in its 3-1 victory over University of the East in the UAAP Season 87 Collegiate Men’s Football Tournament on Sunday at the UP Diliman Football Stadium.

Maquiling, who came from Sacred Heart School - Ateneo de Cebu, converted two penalty kicks in the 18th and 41st minutes after the Blue Eagles initially conceded first early in the contest.

“I’m happy that I finally scored this season,” said the BS Management student. “At least we won our last game in the first round. There are a lot of improvements to be made but a goal is a goal. I’m happy I was able to score those goals.”

The Blue Eagles enjoyed further luck in front of the goal as a mishap by the Red Warriors’ defense forced defender Mark Maghinay to put the ball into his net in the 45+2 minute.

In the second half, the Red Warriors could have trimmed the two-goal deficit but Blue Eagles goalkeeper Artuz Cezar denied Jerome Abarca and Mark Joshua Sedeng’s headers.

Behind a first-round sweep, Ateneo finished top of the standings with 18 points and a goal difference of plus-12.

“We’re happy that we won all of the games in the first round,” said Coach JP Merida. “But on the flip side, I’m not really happy with this performance because we started slow. I think the good thing there was we got two penalties plus one own goal in the first half. In the second half, we didn’t capitalize on our chances, and we need to improve on that coming into the second round.”

On the other hand, UE remained in sixth place at the end of round one with seven points and a minus-5 GD.

UST overcomes Pre career-best in men's basketball

c/o UAAP

UAAP Season 87 Collegiate Men’s Basketball Standings

*DLSU 10 1

*UP 8 1

UE 6 3

UST 5 6

Ateneo 3 7

AdU 3 7

FEU 3 7

NU 2 8

*Final Four

University of Santo Tomas snapped its three-game skid with a big time win over the Veejay Pre-powered Far Eastern University, 79-70, to protect its hold of the fourth spot in the UAAP Season 87 Collegiate Men’s Basketball Tournament at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, Sunday.

Kyle Paranada and Nic Cabañero connived in the final period to fend off the charge by the Tamaraws launched by the 19-year-old Pre, who finished with a massive statline of 31 points on 11-of-17 shooting from the field and 14 rebounds.

FEU kept on pushing in crunch time with Janrey Pasaol’s layup the closest it could get late, 64-69 with 2:42 left in the fourth quarter as Paranada responded with a corner three-pointer followed by a free throw by Cabañero to hike UST’s lead to nine points.

Pre continued to rally the Tamaraws but Cabañero, Forthsky Padrigao, and Christian Manaytay each basket to give the Growling Tigers the victory and break free from their three-game slump to improve to 5-6.

“Three-game losing streak kaya kailangang makabalik. Nagtrabaho ‘yung mga bata tapos breakout game kay Kyle Paranada. Basta kami ang iniisip namin ‘yung last four games do-or-die games na,” said UST head coach Pido Jarencio as his team now holds a 5-6 record with a game and a half advantage over FEU, Ateneo de Manila University, and Adamson University, all at 3-7.

Paranada scored all of his 13 points in the second half on a sweet 5-of-6 mark from the field, while Cabañero made half of his 16 points in the pivotal payoff period.

“In the locker room all we can say is that we’re aiming for the Final Four. With that word from the coaches, doon na kami namotivate agad,“ said Cabañero.

Padrigao added 14 points and five rebounds, while returning Mo Tounkara made his presence felt with 11 points, 12 rebounds, and two blocks.

UST’s next game will be on November 6 against the skidding National University, still at the same Pasay venue.

Backup was lacking for Pre in the Tamaraws’ loss as Pasaol was the next highest scorer with just nine points on 3-of-10 shooting from the field.

Royce Alforque added eight points and eight rebounds while Jorick Bautista, who was known to emerge in the clutch, struggled heavily with just eight points on 3-of-11 shooting from the field.

FEU, which saw its two-game winning run cut short, will try to bounce back on Nov. 3 against University of the East at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion.

The Scores:

UST (79) – Cabañero 16, Padrigao 14, Paranada 13, Tounkara 11, Manaytay 7, Acido 6, Lane 6, Pangilinan 6, Crisostomo 0, Llemit 0, Calum 0, Laure 0, Estacio 0.

FEU (70) – Pre 31, Pasaol 9, Alforque 8, Bautista 8, Konateh 4, Añonuevo 3, Bagunu 3, Daa 2, Montemayor 2, Ona 0, Nakai 0.

Quarterscores: 16-13, 32-29, 50-43, 79-70

UP stuns DLSU late in Men's Football

c/o UAAP

Women's Football Matches on Wednesday at UP Diliman Football Stadium

4 p.m. — UST vs UP

6:30 p.m. — FEU vs DLSU

JOSES Amadu Azur and Ramil Bation III fired late goals to propel University of the Philippines past De La Salle University 2-0 in the UAAP Season 87 Collegiate Men’s Football Tournament on Sunday at the UP Diliman Football Stadium.

Both players, who came off the bench in the second half, put the ball at the back of the net in quick succession to break the Green Booters’ resolve.

Azur was the first to put his same on the scoresheet with a fine finish past La Salle goalkeeper Enrico Mangaoang in the 83rd minute while Bation sealed the victory for UP in the 84th minute.

“It was planned,” said Coach Popoy Clarino. “The way we were able to score the goals, we prepared that during our training. But their desire to score was one of the reasons they were able to get a goal for the team.”

The win allowed UP to end the first round by leapfrogging University of Santo Tomas to third place in the standings with 10 points.

But UP trails Far Eastern University, which took second place behind first round topnotcher Ateneo due to superior goal difference.

“It’s nice to end the first round full of confidence heading into the second round,” said Clarino. “We’re expecting the second round to be more fiery kasi all teams just a couple of points from each other.”

On the other hand, La Salle ended the first round in fifth place with seven points and a minus-4 GD.

The Green Booters looked like they could earn a draw thanks to Mangaoang’s heroics. 

The junior stopper out of De La Salle Zobel denied Fighting Maroons captain Macky Tobias from the penalty spot and performed a point-blank stop against Bation’s header, only for La Salle to eventually lose steam and give in to UP.

UP reclaims share of men's basketball lead

c/o UAAP

UNIVERSITY of the Philippines booked its spot in the UAAP Season 87 Collegiate Men’s Basketball Final Four after holding off Adamson University with a strong finish, 70-59, Sunday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City. 

The Fighting Maroons joined their Finals rival last season De La Salle Green Archers in the semifinals after raising their record to 8-1 at solo second. 

This marked UP’s sixth consecutive trip to the Final Four starting back in Season 81 (2018). 

“This was a clinching semifinal game so you know, it's something that we're gonna celebrate tonight, so to speak, but at the same time the goal is -- the big picture, iyong papasok ng finals, giving ourselves an opportunity for that,” said Fighting Maroons assistant coach Christian Luanzon. 

“For coach Gold, this is something that he's been doing since he started coaching. For him, it's more than just the results. It's all about the improvement ng team and even after this win, still to improve,” added the trusted deputy. 

AJ Fransman’s floater and Jhon Calisay’s triple at the 3:48 mark of the fourth quarter pulled the Soaring Falcons within one, 57-58. 

However, the Fighting Maroons answered in variety of ways as Mark Belmonte, Gerry Abadiano, and Quentin Millora-Brown connived for 12 straight points punctuated by a one-handed hammer by the one-and-done center with 52.4 seconds left, 70-57. 

“Obviously it’s my first year, that year off was definitely hard not playing in the UAAP so I just tried to find that rhythm I had and it’s nice to finally — I’ve been working hard these past two weeks, really focusing on our defense and executing and seeing that translate to games,” said Gani Stevens, who rose to the occasion with 10 points on 3-of-3 shooting from the field after only amassing four points in their first eight games.

JD Cagulangan led UP with 17 points on 7-of-11 clip from the field to go with three rebounds and two steals despite committing five turnovers. 

Terrence Fortea and Belmonte also delivered nine points apiece in the win for the Fighting Maroons who did not have the services of Harold Alarcon as he is recovering from a muscle strain. 

The Soaring Falcons’ struggles went on, suffering their fifth straight loss to drop to 3-7 for joint-sixth with the Ateneo Blue Eagles. 

It was another sorry loss for Adamson against UP, which it led by 22 in their first round encounter only to lose, 69-57. 

Mathew Montebon paced the Falcons anew with 14 points and five rebounds but had six in his team’s 28 turnovers. 

Fransman added 13 points and five rebounds while Cedrick Manzano got 12 points and six rebounds. 

UP looks to continue this momentum on Wednesday against Ateneo at the same Pasay venue at 6:30 p.m. Earlier at 2 p.m., Adamson will face University of the East. 

The Scores:

UP 70 – Cagulangan 17, Stevens 10, Fortea 9, Belmonte 9, Abadiano 7, Torres 4, Millora-Brown 4, Bayla 3, Ududo 3, Lopez 2, Felicilda 2, Alter 0, Torculas 0.

ADU 59 – Montebon 14, Fransman 13, Manzano 12, Yerro 6, Mantua 5, Ojarikre 4, Calisay 3, Ignacio 2, Alexander 0, Anabo 0, Ronzone 0.

Quarterscores: 17-20, 38-31, 55-48, 70-59

Jagoba Arrasate getting RCD Mallorca into potential European play

Jagoba Arrasate

In scrolling through the names currently atop LALIGA this season, you would see the expected names, like FC Barcelona and Real Madrid, but just behind them is a surprising team.

RCD Mallorca has won five of its matches so far this campaign, seeking to build on their previous campaign that saw them reach the Copa del Rey final. Their form sees them in the top five of the Spanish top-flight, potentially giving them a shot at continental play for the first time in two decades.

Much of this is credited to the arrival of their new coach: Jagoba Arrasate. The 46-year-old is best known for what he achieved at CA Osasuna, where he managed to lead Los Rojillos to the Copa del Rey final in 2022/23.

The manager has taken a game-by-game approach to the season, something he highlighted post-match after they defeated Rayo Vallecano last week, 1-0. He says, "It’s just an anecdote that we’re fifth, but not that we already have 17 points. That’s something that does allow us to keep growing. I feel that the team is increasingly comfortable with this way of playing, and I know there’s still room to improve. We have to keep working with the same humility, while understanding that opponents will find it tough to play us."

Mallorca's season kicked off with an impressive 1-1 draw against defending champions Real Madrid, but they stalled in the next few matchdays until securing their first win of the season against CD Leganés. That sparked them winning four of their next five matches, with the win over Rayo a good bounce back after their winning streak was snapped by RCD Espanyol earlier this month.

Their form has been more of a collective effort, with no player having scored more than a couple of goals so far. Antonio Raillo has been the only player to have played every single minute so far this season, with the defender leading the cast in adjusting to a back four after playing a back five under their previous manager Javier Aguirre.

When Arrasate took over in the summer, he noted that he wanted the transition to be as smooth as possible. He said back then, "I want to bring my nuances and my way of seeing football. I want my team to be recognisable, something I oversaw in previous years and which I’d now like to see at RCD Mallorca. This is a team that is already settled and that is already a good team. I’m going to try to lead the team to an even higher level, aware that this is a tough ask, but we are motivated."

Mallorca will face a big test early Monday morning, as the Los Bermellones are set to host Athletic Bilbao, the team it is currently behind by goal difference in LALIGA. A huge result could see them potentially be in the race not just for continental play, but a chance to play in the Champions League.

PFF ready for AFF Women's Futsal Championship hosting

c/o PFF

In a few weeks, the Philippine futsal scene gets to major canvas to paint itself, with the inaugural edition of the ASEAN Women's Futsal Championships.

Philippine Football Federation president John Gutierrez says about the upcoming competition, which will take place at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig City, "This Asean Women’s Futsal Championships is historic because it is the first ever for the region, and it will be the first ever international tournament under our new administration."

He adds, "With awareness and participation for women’s football at an all-time high, we are continuing the tremendous work that the Filipinas have achieved in the last several years. And with futsal also growing, this hosting of the Asean Women’s Futsal Championship is an exciting follow-up that stands on its own as a precursor to our hosting next year’s FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup."

The tournament will feature four more regional squads who are relative high in the FIFA Futsal rankings: sixth-ranked Thailand, eleventh-ranked Vietnam, 24th-ranked Indonesia, and 37th-ranked Myanmar.

For the 59th-ranked Philippines, it is the latest step to get this team competitive for the inaugural edition of the global competition, slated to take place from November 21 to December 7 next year.

It marks a continued strong projection for the side which the PFF has been investing since 2021 alongside the Henry Moran Foundation. They finished second in the PFF Tri-Nations Women's Futsal Invitational last year, coached by Vic Hermans. The Dutch gaffer been working with the PFF since 2022.

Gutierrez concludes, "We’re incredibly excited to host this tournament. We have seen the country explode in the last decade or so in terms of sports hosting as well as world-class events. We are continuing the work started by previous PFF administrations and hope to make our countrymen, our Asean neighbors, as well as sports fans proud by not only our hosting – of which Filipinos are known for – but also for our national team’s performance."

He also requests, "We invite all football fans, players, coaches, stakeholders to watch this exciting event. Rest assured that we have a top-team working behind the scenes to ensure the success of this Asean Women’s Futsal Championships."

UST locks in postseason berth

c/o UAAP

UAAP Season 87 Collegiate Women’s Basketball Tournament Standings 

*NU 9-0

*UST 9-1

AdU 7-3

Ateneo 5-5

UP 3-6

FEU 2-7

DLSU 2-8

UE 1-8

Games on Wednesday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena

8 a.m. - UE vs UST (JHS)

10 a.m. - AdU vs UE (Women)

12 p.m. - Ateneo vs UP (Women) 

2 p.m. - AdU vs UE (Men)

6:30 p.m. - Ateneo vs UP (Men)

UNIVERSITY of Santo Tomas claimed the second Final Four ticket in the UAAP Season 87 Collegiate Women’s Basketball Tournament with a dominant 70-54 victory over Far Eastern University on Sunday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

After improving their record to 9-1 through 10 outings, the Growling Tigresses have secured the second semifinal seat alongside fellow Season 86 finalist NU Lady Bulldogs.

This also marks UST’s sixth consecutive Final Four appearance. 

The Tigresses last missed the semifinals in Season 79 (2016), finishing the elimination round in fifth place with a 6-8 record in Haydee Ong’s first year as UST head coach.

“Lahat naman ng program, it’s not overnight. Talagang you have to make the puzzle right, yung mga right pieces of players, right recruitment, and the UST program is more on player development rather than recruitment program,” Ong said. 

“We wanted na pag may rinecruit kaming player, it’s not always the best players, but always the right one for our program,” the former national team head coach added.

The Growling Tigresses turned a slim 23-16 first-quarter advantage into a commanding 17-point cushion at halftime, 41-24, thanks to a dominant 25-11 second-frame showing.

From there, UST did not look back, continuing to surge in the third quarter and mounting an insurmountable 24-point lead, 60-36, heading into the payoff period.

They led by as many as 26 points after an inside hit by Rachel Ambos gave the Growling Tigresses a 64-38 cushion in the fourth period, sealing their sixth straight win and replicating their 66-57 first-round beatdown of the Lady Tamaraws on October 5.

“We played according to our game plan. Yung mga easy baskets for FEU, mga turnovers namin need i-address, but overall naman, we’re happy for the win. Yung mga dapat magstep up, nagstep up, and we give some time naman doon sa bench ko for them to be exposed,” Ong added.

Tacky Tacatac led the scoring for UST with 12 points on 4-of-12 shooting from beyond the arc, along with three steals, two rebounds, and two assists. 

Kent Pastrana contributed 11 points, 13 rebounds, three assists, and one steal.

Rachelle Ambos also tallied a double-double performance with 10 points and 10 rebounds, while Karylle Sierba chipped in nine points, three rebounds, two assists, and two steals. 

CJ Maglupay was two points shy of a double-double after recording eight points and 11 rebounds, along with two assists and a block.

Looking ahead, UST’s six-game streak is at stake, setting the stage for its highly anticipated clash against lone first-round tormentor NU on Wednesday, November 6 at the same Pasay venue.

Joann Nagma paced the Lady Tamaraws in the loss with 11 points and four rebounds, while Yvette Villanueva contributed 10 points, five rebounds, two assists, and two steals.

Shane Salvani had an all-around stat line of eight points, 10 assists, six steals, and one block, while Victoria Pasilang chipped in eight points, four rebounds, and one assist. 

FEU’s top scorer, MJ Manguiat, who averaged 13.38 points prior to this game, was limited to three points on 0-of-10 shooting.

The Lady Tamaraws look to return to the winning column in a battle against also-ran University of the East next Sunday, November 3, at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion.

The Scores:

UST (70) – Tacatac 12, Pastrana 11, Ambos 10, Sierba 9, Maglupay 8, Santos 8, Pescador 5, N. Danganan 4, Soriano 3, Relliquette 0, Pineda 0, Serrano 0, Amatong 0, Bron 0.

FEU (54) – Nagma 11, Villanueva 10, Salvani 8, Pasilang 8, Lopez 7, Ong 3, Manguiat 3, Dela Torre 3, Paras 1.

Quarterscores: 16-13, 41-24, 60-36, 70-54

Adamson fends off UP to solidify postseason case in women's basketball

c/o UAAP

Games on Wednesday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena

8 a.m. - UE vs UST (JHS)

10 a.m. - AdU vs UE (Women)

12 p.m. - Ateneo vs UP (Women) 

2 p.m. - AdU vs UE (Men)

6:30 p.m. - Ateneo vs UP (Men)

ADAMSON University held off a late-game rally by University of the Philippines to strengthen its hold on third place in the UAAP Season 87 Collegiate Women’s Basketball Tournament, clinching a hard-fought 57-54 victory on Sunday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

Despite all the offensive struggles, the Lady Falcons posted their second straight win and improved to 7-3 overall, establishing a two-game lead over the Ateneo Blue Eagles, who are set to face the Fighting Maroons on Wednesday. 

The win also secured a Final Four spot for idle NU Lady Bulldogs, making them the first team in the women’s division to clinch a Final Four berth.

Meanwhile, UP’s playoff hopes took a hit as they fell to a 3-6 record, remaining in fifth place with five games left in the elimination round.

“If you are aiming for the Final Four, you are not guaranteed after a strong first round even how good of a position you have. We were just telling them na the next three games are very crucial in our bid for a Final Four spot,” said Adamson head coach Ryan Monteclaro. “Luckily, we are two out of three. With this win, I hope this will be the momentum that we’re willing looking forward to heading into the deeper part of the season.”

After consecutive layups by Elaine Etang and Kem Adeshina pushed the Lady Falcons’ lead to six, 53-47, Achrissa Maw and Kaye Pesquera responded with a four-point burst to cut UP's deficit to 53-51 with 2:31 remaining.

A crucial inside shot by Jam Meniano fell short as the Lady Falcons committed an eight-second violation and a blocking foul, allowing Pesquera to make two free throws and narrow the lead to one, 55-54, with 16.7 seconds on the clock.

Despite Etang hitting just one of her four free throws in two late trips to the line, Adamson held on as UP’s Jimenez turned the ball over on their final possession, sealing the victory for the Lady Falcons.

“For a team to shoot 18-of-71 and still win the game, that shows our character. In the first half, we were focused on our attempts, we were so tentative. It ended up with we have 71 attempts and they have 51. We became more aggressive and it reflects on how we defended,” Monteclaro added. 

Etang powered Adamson’s second consecutive win with 22 points, five steals, four rebounds, and one assist, while Adeshina contributed 15 points on 5-of-9 shooting to go along with six rebounds, and one assist.

Agojo was limited to five points on 2-of-9 shooting but still grabbed seven rebounds, while Apag was held to three points but still contributed four assists and two rebounds. 

Adamson will look to further cement their third-place position in the eight-team league when they face the struggling University of the East on Wednesday, Oct. 30, at the same Pasay venue.

Rizza Lozada emerged as the Fighting Maroons’ lone double-digit scorer with 13 points and seven rebounds, while Pesquera was limited to nine points on 2-of-8 shooting and seven turnovers but still contributed five rebounds and two assists.

Maw chipped in nine points, five rebounds, and one assists, while Louna Ozar contributed eight points, eight rebounds, four assists, and one steal, but turned the ball over nine times. Christie Bariquit was held to five points but still grabbed 11 rebounds and two assists.

UP, on the other hand, aims to bounce back against an undefeated National U squad next Sunday, Nov. 3, at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion.

The Scores: 

Adamson (57) - Etang 22, Adeshina 15, Agojo 5, Apag 3, Mazo 3, Padilla 3, Alaba 3, Meniano 2, Limbago 1, Ornopia 0, Cortez 0, Bajo 0, Alaba 0.

UP (54) - Lozada 13, Pesquera 9, Maw 9, Ozar 8, Bariquit 5, Jimenez 5, Vingno 2, Sauz 2, Tapawan 1, Mendoza 0, Nolasco 0.

Quarterscores: 13-14, 30-32, 42-43, 57-54.

Adamson stunner puts Ateneo postseason hopes in question

c/o UAAP

UAAP Season 87 Junior High School Basketball Tournament Standings

UE 8-0

FEU-D 6-2

UST 6-3

NUNS 5-4

DLSZ 4-4

ATENEO 4-5

ADU 2-7

UPIS 0-10

Games on Wednesday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena

8 a.m. - UE vs UST (JHS)

10 a.m. - AdU vs UE (Women)

12 p.m. - Ateneo vs UP (Women) 

2 p.m. - AdU vs UE (Men)

6:30 p.m. - Ateneo vs UP (Men)

AURELIO Fransman delivered in the clutch, lifting Adamson University to its biggest win yet in the UAAP Season 87 Junior High School Basketball Tournament, edging Ateneo de Manila University, 72-68, and snapping their three-game skid on Sunday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

Fransman recorded 15 points, three steals, and two assists, powering the Baby Falcons to their second win in nine games with his timely heroics.

“Ang pinapa-emphasize ko sa practice, kaya naman natin manalo ‘eh, bakit hindi natin ibahin yung result. Kaya naman natin ‘eh, bakit kami hihinto diba? Kaya napansin niyo na different na kami lumabas nung second round kasi may adjustments sa defense,” said Baby Falcons head coach Alex Barrera.

Fransman, the younger brother of Soaring Falcon AJ, broke a 59-all tie with back-to-back three-pointers, pushing Ateneo into a six-point hole, 65-59, with 4:49 left. Before his clutch triples, Fransman had struggled beyond the arc with just 1-of-8 shooting.

His heroics ignited a late surge for Adamson as Craig Fongtong’s basket and layups from Chrys Jomez and Edison Jordan stretched the lead to 71-64 with under two minutes remaining.

Ateneo fought back with quick baskets from YJ Lacsamana and Zane Kallos to cut the lead to three with 52.3 seconds left, but a critical turnover by Sky Jazul at the 24.3-second mark thwarted their hopes for a game-tying shot.

Although Fransman missed two crucial free throws, Prince Banate secured the offensive rebound and added a free throw, sealing the comeback win.

Prior to this, Adamson’s lone victory had come against the winless UPIS team in the first round.

The win also allowed Adamson to avenge its 73-79 first-round loss to Ateneo last September 21.

“I hope na sana magising na yung mga boys ko na kaya naman pala namin maglaro with a different look. Ang pinaka problem ko nung first round ay yung adjustment and yung rules, hindi nila kaya kunin agad. Ngayon, binigyan kami ng chance dahil sa mahaba na break, nainstill ko na paunti-unti,” added Barrera, a former Soaring Falcon.

Edison Jordan contributed a double-double with 15 points, 12 rebounds, two steals, and one assist, while Craig Fongtong chipped in nine points, 10 rebounds, and two blocks. 

Keefe Iledan added eight points, eight rebounds, one steal, and one block, and Gomez rounded out the effort with seven points, seven rebounds, eight assists, and one steal.

The Baby Falcons will have a two-week break to regroup and aim for their first winning streak of the season as they prepare to face the FEU-D Baby Tamaraws on Sunday, Nov. 10, at the SMART Araneta Coliseum.

Meanwhile, the loss sent Ateneo to its fourth defeat in five games, dimming their Final Four hopes as they fell to a 4-5 record, one game behind the fourth-running NU Bullpups.

Kallos’ 31-point, 11-rebound double-double went unrewarded in the loss, while Lacsamana came close to a double-double with nine points, 16 rebounds, two steals, and a block.

The Blue Eagles will a talk task in their next game against league-leading UE Red Warriors on November 9 also at the Big Dome.

The Scores:

ADU (72) - Fransman 15, E. Jordan 15, Fongtong 9, Iledan 8, Gomez 7, Azurias 7, Ondevilla 4, Banate 3, Timzon 2, Alcantara 2, A. Jordan 0. 

Ateneo (68) - Kallos 31, Lacsamana 9, Molina 8, Juangco 8, Jazul 5, Ngo 5, Bernarte 2, Pineda 0, Meresen 0, Valte 0, Ramos 0, Divinagracia 0, Dela Rosa 0.

Quarterscores: 17-28, 35-47, 55-58, 72-68.