Tigers roarin’ for payback vs Bulldogs

Games today (MOA Arena)

2 p.m. – AdMU vs AdU

4 p.m. – UST vs NU

MANILA, Philippines –  Streaking University of Santo Tomas seeks to avenge its first-round loss to holder National U and put the embattled Bulldogs on a deeper hole today in an explosive UAAP Season 78 men’s basketball matchup at the MOA Arena.

Unbeaten in their last four assignments since conceding a 54-55 setback to NU last month, the Tigers (7-1) hit the court at 4 p.m. with their sights set on a vengeful win that will not only give them a share of the lead with Far Eastern (8-1) but also stymie the bid of the struggling Bulldogs (3-5).

“We have to correct the mistakes we committed in our first meeting with NU,” said UST coach Bong dela Cruz.

In that game, the Bulldogs wiped out a seven-point deficit in the fourth quarter and leaned on a jumper from way out by big man Alfred Aroga with 14.7 seconds remaining to pick up their first victory after a 0-3 start.

“That shot hurt me so much. I’m gonna make sure he won’t do that again,” said UST slotman Karim Abdul.

With just three wins and six games to go, the Bulldogs should start making their move to save the season.

“The door’s getting smaller for us,” said NU coach Eric Altamirano after his team’s 47-52 loss to University of the East last weekend.

“We’ll continue to prepare for the games and play as hard as we can and see from there. At least it (Final Four bid) is still in our hands,” he added.

Meanwhile, Ateneo (4-4) aims to get out of a two-game slide and boost its campaign when it battles Adamson (1-7) at 2 p.m.

Coach Bo Perasol, who got a vote of confidence from school officials amid criticism and talks of ouster, saw a silver lining even if the Blue Eagles succumbed to pacesetting FEU last Sunday, 61-66.

“Even though we lost this game, I think we have shown character, especially our rookies. I’m really positive what this team can do,” said Perasol.

“Again, the criticism will not be going away because of the nature of what Ateneo stands for, excellence and being the best. That’s what we preach also to our players. But sometimes, it takes time,” he added.