Season 76 Most Valuable Player Paolo Bugas played the whole of last Thursday’s 3-1 loss of FEU against UP, but it may be the last time the Tamaraw midfielder will see action this season. Hours after the game, Bugas announced via social media that he has a torn meniscus, damaging his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and prompting him to spend a significant amount of time on the sidelines.
The third year player began to feel discomfort in the last 10 minutes of the game but was not aware that he picked up a serious injury. “Pinilit ko lang ilaro kasi gusto ko tapusin ung game even though we’re losing 3-1. Hindi ko naman inexpect na yun na pala problema ng tuhod ko. Wala na rin ako magagawa, nangyari na eh,” he stated.
A follow up check up last Friday sparked hope for Bugas and the Tamaraws as they learned that he may miss just a minimum of four weeks. Bugas is scheduled for a platelet-rich plasma injection to aid his recovery.
The only player in the league with a senior cap for the Azkals may be out for a while but his presence on the bench can still be felt through his words to his teammates. “[I would contribute] by motivating them and sharing my knowledge about how to play better, not on how I play but to share with them how to play better.”
Never been injured before in his career, Bugas seeks to return to action just in time for the playoffs. “I hope I can still play. Praying for my fast recovery.” For now, the Tamaraws will have to make do without him on the pitch starting today against DLSU.
