By: Brenn Allen Flores
Emilio Aguinaldo College faced a significant test in its season opener against Arellano University, but it persevered despite the challenges.
The Generals relied on their deep roster and resilience, even after dealing with some injuries.
Throughout the game, Arellano University maintained the lead, with Troy Valencia’s layup in the final frame briefly putting the Chiefs ahead.
Despite trailing for most of the game, the Generals showed no signs of fatigue. They continued to implement their defensive press, which increasingly wore down the already exhausted Arellano team.
When the final buzzer sounded in overtime, it was evident that the Generals remained fresh and composed.
In contrast, the Chiefs were visibly disheartened and struggled with cramps that sidelined two crucial players, Troy Valencia and Cyril Hernal.
Lorenz Capulong, who led Arellano in scoring, was also disqualified from the game due to a technical foul for taunting.
EAC head coach Jerson Cabiltes remarked, “Siguro we’re just fortunate na nag-cramps sila. I’m not sure kung dahil sa press namin ‘yon, but we’re just fortunate madaming nag-cramps sakanila and nakuha namin yung victory because madami silang players na nawala eh.”
Despite the injuries to the Chiefs, several Generals stepped up in crucial moments towards the end of the game.
Former Chief Wilmar Oftana played a pivotal role by hitting a clutch three-pointer with under a minute remaining, narrowing Arellano’s lead to one point.
This set the stage for Gil Quinal to score a decisive corner three, putting the Generals ahead by two with less than 30 seconds left in regulation.
“Actually, para sa akin kasi, everybody contributed so it was a team effort. Lahat yan, lahat puwede mag-step up.
“We’re fortunate that Oftana made a crucial three and Quinal made a corner three. Si Gelo Loristo nakatulong with his chopper on the side,” Cabiltes noted.
Cabiltes also attributed the Generals’ success to their strong start and effective rotation.
“Siguro isang factor kanina is we had a good start, and then I was able to use 14 players in the first half. So that’s why noong second half, mas fresh kami kesa sa kanila,” he explained.
Looking ahead, Cabiltes is aware of the significance of this hard-fought win as they prepare for their next three games against formidable opponents: Mapua University, College of Saint Benilde, and San Beda University.
“It’s a test of character playing against Arellano because they’re a tough team. Noong preseason palang dikit-dikit na din mga laban namin. We’re leading at half time and then naka-catch up sila. Same thing happened here,” he said.
“Malaking bagay ‘to kasi we’re going up against Mapua next game on Wednesday, CSB on Saturday, and Tuesday, San Beda. So it’s momentum going up against those three giants,” he concluded, emphasizing the importance of maintaining momentum against these top teams.
