Undermanned Archers lean on strong 2nd half, extend streak

MANILA, Philippines – Injury-hit defending champion La Salle cranked it up in the second half to romp off with a 67-48 rout of Adamson and keep its win streak going in the UAAP Season 77 men's baskeball tourney at the Smart Araneta Coliseum Saturday.

The Green Archers made their move in the third quarter and outscored the Falcons, 22-11, to seize a 45-29 spread that lay the foundation to their third consecutive win after a 0-2 start.

The Taft-based dribblers pulled this one off without key big men Arnold van Opstal and Norbert Torres, who joined guard Thomas Torres on sick bay with Achilles and sprained ankle injuries, respectively.

"We should have played with more energy in the first half," rued DLSU coach Juno Sauler.

Kib Montalbo rifled in 18 markers, firing eight in the game-changing third period for DLSU. He was about the only starter who played long minutes as Sauler decided to send in the shock troopers in lieu of Jeron Teng and Jason Perkins, who each coughed up two markers.

Prince Rivero (12), Julian Sargent (8 points), Abu Tratter (7), Yutien Andrada (6) and Robert Bolick (4) responded to Sauler's challenge to help fuel the Archers' breakaway off the bench.

"There was lack of energy in my first group and I saw the energy from the guys coming off the bench. Prince, Julian and Robert, and even Yutien. I thought they showed a lot on intensity on both ends of the floor," said Sauler.

The Falcons showed a marked improvement from their lowly 25-62 loss to National U the previous game, staying within striking distance of the Archers in the first 20 minutes.

"We didn't even talk about that (Adamson coming off a record-low). Just like how we approach every game, it's now who we're playing but what we want to accomplish," said Sauler.

According to Sauler, doctors advised a week's rest for van Opstal and Norbert Torres and added they are "day to day."

Jansen Rios fired 11 points for the Falcons (0-5), who nearly doubled the horrendous 25 they managed against the Bulldogs.