Using a devastating third quarter surge, the FEU Tamaraws trampled the UP Maroons, 85-71, extending UP’s losing streak to 25 dating back to Season 75.
In true UP fashion, the Maroons were able to keep the game relatively close throughout the first half thanks to a torrid seven for 19 performance from beyond the arc and trailing the Tamaraws just 38-45 during halftime but the Maroons just could not keep up with FEU’s adjustments on both ends from there on.
The Tamaraws poured it on the Maroons, allowing them just eight points on one for sixteen shooting and then unleashing 25 points of their own in the third quarter.
The boys from Recto were deadly efficient from the field, shooting 56 percent overall and 66 percent from two-point range, overshadowing their 19 turnovers and 10 for 22 shooting from the charity stripe. The Tams also annihilated the Maroons in the paint hauling in 47 rebounds compared to UP’s 27, while also outscoring the Maroons 52-30 from the shaded area.
Zamboanga native, Mike Tolomia was unstoppable in his limited playing time. FEU’s star Guard turned in a team-high 18 points (10 in the first period) on seven for eight shooting, four rebounds, and three assists while playing just 15 minutes.
FEU, now with a 2-1 record, also got key performances from four other players who scored in double figures. Mark Belo had 12 points and nine boards, Roger Pogoy and Carl Cruz contributed 11 points apiece while Anthony Hargrove had 10 points.
Rangy Power Forward, Rey Gallarza led all Maroons, who are now 0-4 for the season, in scoring with 18 points, 14 of which came in the first half. Dave Moralde pitched in 14 points but made just four of his 14 shots from the field. Last season’s rookie of the year, Kyles Lao, put up 10 points and three assists.
The Tamaraws will face this season’s host, UE Warriors on July 30 at the MoA Arena while the Maroons will try to end their losing streak against the UST Tigers on August 2 at the Araneta Colesium.
