Warriors carry ‘underdogs’ tag versus Lancers

CEBU, Philippines - They enjoy a 2-1 advantage in head-to-head record, yet University of San Carlos Warriors head coach Britt Reroma considers his team as the ‘underdogs’ against the University of the Visayas Green Lancers in the best-of-five collegiate division finals of the 15th Cebu Schools Athletic Foundation, Inc. men’s basketball tournament that will commence tomorrow yet at the Cebu Coliseum.

The Warriors drew first blood, 79-69, but the Lancers bounced back in style annihilating the Carolinians by 31 points, 74-43, during their second meeting. The Warriors, however, quickly exorcized the ghost of that stinging defeat by cruishing past the Lancers in overtime, 79-75, during their semifinal battle.

Though they have all the advantage as many pundits observed, Reroma humble said it would  be a tall order for them going up against a formidable opponent with vast championship experience and a storied history in the league.

‘We are the underdogs in this final series because we are playing opposite the 10-time CESAFI champions with a very deep lineup,” said Reroma. “We must be mentally tough in the series. Playing against UV is a tough task but we must enjoy and grab this opportunity to give our best for USC.”

For his part, UV chief strategist Gary Cortes foresees a protracted battle against the Warriors, considered as their fiercest rivals to the coveted throne from the very beginning of the tournament.

“The finals is always been an anybody’s game. I think it will go the distance,” said Cortes.

Just as Reroma look at the Lancers with utmost sense of respect, Cortes also heaps praises on the Warriors as a team, but hinted that in the end, it will all boil down as to who has the bigger heart and stronger will to win.

“They are a solid, intact team and very aggressive for they are looking for their very first CESAFI title. UV has already won 10 championships. But me, coach Jomags (Jojo Maglasang) and our players, especially the rookies, are all yearning to feel what it is like to be the CESAFI champions,” added Cortes.— EBV (FREEMAN)