Who will rule the roost?

MANILA, Philippines - Champs again or champs at last? Ateneo tries to extend its reign as Philippine Collegiate Champions League (PCCL) national champion while Adamson seeks to end years of frustration on the hardcourt as they begin their championship series today at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.

The so-called “Battle of the Birds” between the Blue Eagles and the Soaring Falcons blasts off with Game 1 of the best-of-three series starting at 4 p.m. following the one-game duel for third place between University of Cebu and La Salle at 2 p.m.

Serving as appetizer to the big boys’ showdown is the exhibition match between UAAP runner-up University of Santo Tomas Tiger Cubs and their NCAA counterparts, the San Sebastian Staglets at 12 noon.

Although Ateneo got Adamson’s numbers in their three meetings in the last UAAP, including a blowout in the Final Four, coach Norman Black expects a tough matchup against an opponent parading a full complement.

“Adamson is complete. All of their key players from the last UAAP season are playing and they’re in pretty good shape,” said Black, whose wards ripped semis rival UC Webmasters, 74-54, to get a crack at a second straight PCCL diadem and third overall.

In contrast, he admitted the Eagles are far from the form that netted them a three-peat in the UAAP. Finals MVP Ryan Buenafe is also not around for the team, concentrating on his studies.

Adamson gives up championship experience to Ateneo but coach Leo Austria feels hunger will give them a lift. The Falcons came close to winning their first title since their 1977 UAAP conquest last month when they reached the University Games finals but fell short against the Ray Parks-led National U.

“They (Ateneo) have an advantage, being in a lot of finals before. But we’re hungrier and we have an intense desire to win,” said Austria, whose crew earlier eked out a 67-59 disposal of a La Salle team that came off a giant upset over favorite San Beda.