Growling Tigresses claw FEU

by Cyreel Gian Zarate

The University of Santo Tomas Growling Tigresses survived the late scare of the Far Eastern University Lady Tamaraws, 73–67, in the UAAP Season 80 women’s basketball tournament at the Mall of Asia Arena Saturday.

After being riddled by FEU in the fourth canto, UST’s Sai Larosa and Jhenn Angeles exploded at crunch time combining 18 points in the crucial period.

Angeles sank two free shots to secure their third victory of the season, 73–67.

Despite being slapped with a technical foul after resenting to some calls, UST head coach Haydee Ong praised her players for making a comeback at both ends in the closing period.

“We forced them to a lot of turnovers and we converted it [into baskets], and si Larosa noong second half, she did her job,” she explained.

Angeles delivered 21 points to lead UST while Sai Larosa provided 17 markers and 10 boards.

“Nagself-reflect lang ako noong second half. Nag-start ako sa defense, then sunod-sunod [tapos] hindi ko namamalayan na nakakaagaw na kami at nakakatira na ako,” Larosa stated.

UST will clash against Ateneo de Manila Blue Eagles on Wednesday, Sept. 27 at the Araneta Coliseum.

Box Scores

UST 73- Angeles 21, Anies 18, Larosa 17, Isanan 8, Gandalla 6, Tortillo 2, Aujero 1, Rivera 0, Capilit 0, Peñaflor 0, Jerez 0, Magat 0.

FEU 67- Mamaril 21, Quiapo 11, Arellado 9, Jumuad 9, Taguiam 7, Gerner 4, Balleser 4, Antiola 2, Bastatas 0, Payado 0, Ouano 0, De Guzman 0.

Quarter Scores

19–16, 35–32, 51–55, 73–67