The Philippine Super Liga Grand Prix, the second staging of the PSL this year, will begin with a doubleheader on November 10 at the FilOil-Flying V Arena with the opening ceremonies at 1pm. The tournament begins with a match pitting PLDT MyDSL and Maybank in the men's division at 2pm, followed by recent V-League champion Cagayan Valley going up against Petron at 4pm.
TMS-Philippine Army won the inagural tournament by beating Cignal HD in four sets, 25-15, 25-18, 14-25, 25-16. Petron, meanwhile, copped third place after defeating the Cagayan Valley Rising Suns, 25-18, 22-25, 26-24, 25-16.
Army is bannered by an all-star cast that includes Jacq Alarca, Mary Jean Balse, Tina Salak, and Rachel Anne Daquis, who will be playing in the PSL for the first time. Coach Enrico de Guzman will also rely on reinforcements Wanitchaya Luangtonglang of Thailand and Yuki Murakoshi of Japan.
Cignal welcomes the veteran presence of Maureen Penetrante-Ouano, who joins fellow De La Salle University-Manila alumni Michelle Datuin and Chie Saet. Another new face in the squad is Jheck Dionela, who previously played for Cagayan in the Invitational conference. They will be backstopped by two Chinese imports in Li Zhan Zhan and Xie Lei.
Petron Blaze parades a mix of former Ateneo and De La Salle spikers namely, Kara Acevedo, Dzi Gervacio, Gretchen Ho, Melissa Gohing, and Stephanie Mercado. Coach Vilet Ponce-de Leon took the services of Misao Tanyama and Shinako Tanaka of Japan.
Cagayan Valley has a veteran-laden lineup that includes Angge Tabaquero, Aiza Maizo, Pau Soriano, Joy Benito, Sandra delos Santos, and Jen Reyes. Thai spikers Jeng Koturang and Patcharee Sangmuang further bolsters Nestor Pamilar's formidable squad.
The PLDT MyDSL Speed Boosters are raring to improve from their fifth place finish in the first edition of the PSL. The ever animated Roger Gorayeb has a roster that sports Angelina Benting, Lizlee Ann Gata-Pantone, Lou Ann Latigay, Suzanne Roces, Cha Soriano, and Maru Banaticla. They are joined by American spikers Kaylee Manns and Savannah Noyes.
Finally, RC Cola, which replaced Bingo Filipino, sports a combination of youth and experience as mentor Ronald Dulay will filed in Jed Montero, Southlyn Ramos, Ivy Remulla, and Giza Yumang. In addition, they will be boosted by Sontaya Keawbundit and Zhang Minghua.
For the first time, there will be a men's division, which comprises of four teams. Aside from PLDT and Maybank, the other teams are Systema and Giligan's. Multi-talented actor and athlete Richard Gomez is in the lineup of PLDT MyDSL.
11/08/2013
PBA 2013 draft rundown
A week is about to pass since the 2013 PBA rookie draft was held on November 3 at Robinson's Place in Ermita, Manila, but we are still feeling the aftershocks as teams continue to shuffle their roster to find the best combination that will get them far for the coming 2013-14 season.
Here are my comments on how each team did on Sunday with updated analysis that reflects the transactions that has occurred since. Here they are in order from most players drafted with the ones who selected earliest going first.
Globalport Batang Pier - Terrence Romeo, RR Garcia, Isaac Holstein, Nico Salva, Jopher Custodio, LA Revilla
Team owner Mikee Romero made the most of having three picks in the first round by selecting Romeo, Garcia, and Holstein. He then scored Salva in the second round, as well as Custodio and Revilla in the third round before passing in the fourth round, the first team to do so. Since then, Holstein was dealt away to San Mig Coffee for first round draft pick Justin Chua and Leo Najorda.
One thing that is apparent with Globalport is that they just got bigger. Batang Pier were able to acquire Enrico Villanueva in a separate transaction, while that two-for-one switch for Holstein and Erik Menk signing for one year means their average height just went up. Romeo and Garcia will essentially fill Gary David's scoring by committee, although I am not sure how coach Junel Baculi will utilize LA Revilla in a guard-heavy rotation. But we'll never know as he might end up this season's Emman Monfort.
Rain or Shine Elastopainters - Raymond Almazan, Alex Nuyles, Jeric Teng, Gayford Rodriguez, Ervic Vijandre
Almazan, Nuyles, and Teng will most likely be tendered with contracts. Gayford Rodriguez, at the ripe age of 28, does not have time on his side, which means he has to deliver during this short preseason to merit a slot. Drafting Vijandre might just be for shits and giggles, but I can see him becoming a Rain or Shine spokesperson or a PBA ambassador at the very least. If he gets cut, he can haggle a contract to become a TV5 talent instead.
Barako Bull Energy Cola - Jeric Fortuna, Carlo Lastimosa, Darwin Cordero, Jett Vidal, Mike Silungan
Despite trading away their three first round draft picks, Barako Bull made up for it by drafting late. Fortuna is the only one I see with a realistic chance of getting signed as Lastimosa, Vidal, and Silungan are virtually a carbon copy of each other. The verdict is still out with Cordero. Besides, they still have a 20-odd pool to choose from outside of Danny Seigle refusing to sign with the PBA's trade fodder.
Talk 'N Text Tropang Texters - John Paul Erram, Robby Celiz, Eliud Poligrates, Omping Sumalinog, Byron Villiarias
One thing that I realized with the current draft system is that not all those whose names got called are assured of seeing action in the PBA, while those who got undrafted stay that way forever. The reason I am saying this is that I don't see anyone from those that Talk 'N Text selected generating an impact immediately.
The Tropang Texters are so stacked right now, they'll be lucky if they get a token contract. Erram will probably be the next Rob Reyes at the least, and if the other four can be converted to a complimentary wing player, then that's the best that I can see them as for the time being.
Air21 Express - Eric Camson, Joshua Webb, Angelo Ingco, Randolf Chua, Jens Knuttel
Since coach Franz Pumaren opted to go for Camson and Webb, another Lasallian alumnus in Romero was able to nab Revilla after dealing for Ginebra's third round pick. I'm not sure if that counts as a troll move or if Globalport sincerely wanted to get the former San Beda Red Cub since the Express are in need of a dependable point guads. This is where Knuttel comes in despite the fact he was picked way, way late in the draft.
Meralco Bolts - Anjo Caram, Mike Parala, Mark Lopez, Ronoel Guevarra, Mark Bringas
A team that did not get TV time on Sunday as they only started drafting in the third round, they got busy and took five players. Caram and Lopez are serviceable at the least, Parala is a project, and Guevarra and Bringas are bubble players.
Barangay Ginebra San Miguel Kings - Greg Slaughter, James Forrester, John Usita, Alvin Padilla
This is, to my opinion, the next best set of players that was taken in the first round after Globalport's windfall. You've got high potential players Slaughter and Forrester and they are able to fill Ginebra's immediate need. Padilla is pretty much lucky if he becomes the Kings' 13th player as Usita already got cut. Also, they were able to acquire Globalport's first round draft pick next year.
San Mig Coffee Mixers - Ian Sangalang, Justin Chua, Justin Melton, JR Cawaling
If Barangay Ginebra were able to get the best talent in the first round, the Coffee Mixers got the best picks overall. Sanglanag is a shoo-in, Chua has been converted to Holstein since then, Melton was a steal in the second round, and JR Cawaling, despite falling to the third round, should get a contract at the very least.
Alaska Aces - Ryan Buenafe, Chris Excimiano, Raymond Ilagan
For someone who did not attend the rookie camp, it is a surprise that Ryan Buenafe was picked high, although he is a dependable talent and proven winner. Excimiano is seen as a smaller version of Calvin Abueva, and it remains to be seen how he will fit in the backcourt rotation of head coach Luigi Trillo.
Petron Blaze Boosters - Sam Marata, Nate Matute
Players with duplicate skills, it will be a miracle if Marata and Matute gets to step onto a PBA hardcourt considering how stacked the Blaze Boosters are. And they were able to get Yousef Taha as collateral damage in that Barako Bull rigodon in the first round. So, that's that.
Draft day winners - Globalport and San Mig Coffee
It is hard to lose if you have three first round draft picks. Batang Pier essentially went for the best talent, went tall, and were able to get what they needed. Not bad.
The Coffee Mixers, on the other hand, was quality from top to bottom. Head coach Tim Cone gets an instant impact big man in Sangalang, a token project in Holstein, a reliable point guard in Melton, and a very malleable Cawaling. In local parlance, it is what you call 'walang tapon'.
Draft day loser - Barako Bull
It is easy to lose if you have three first round draft picks and give all of them away just as that. With that statement, I think I just contradicted myself with what I said about Globalport's position. But just think about it for a moment. You give away three quality picks for scrubs and then draft more scrubs. Now, they are surprised they have a 20+-player lineup.
Schools with multiple players who got drafted
Ateneo de Manila University (6) - Greg Slaughter, Ryan Buenafe, Justin Chua, Nico Salva, John Paul Erram, Omping Sumalinog
All six is part of the Blue Eagles' five-peat, so it's no surprise they were all called up, with five of them getting picked in the first two rounds.
Far Eastern University (6) - Terrence Romeo, RR Garcia, Chris Exciminiano, JR Cawaling, Jens Knuttel, Ryan Bringas
Another school that produces caliber talent, FEU ties with fellow UAAP member school with six draft picks.
University of the Philippines (4) - Sam Marata, Mike Silungan, Alvin Padilla, Mark Lopez
With four guards getting picked, it just shows where the relative strength of the Fighting Maroons' roster is.
De La Salle University-Manila (3) - Joshua Webb, LA Revilla, Ervic Vijandre
Not a lot to see in this batch of Green Archers.
Adamson University (2) - Alexander Nuyles, Eric Camson
Nuyles was able to defy projections by getting drafted late in the first round, while Camson will be able to find a role in a thin Air21 backcourt.
University of Santo Tomas (2) - Jeric Teng, Jeric Fortuna
The two Jerics, in my opinion, are the two best picks in the second round, and they can be considered as steals.
College of Saint Benilde (2) - Carlo Lastimosa, Randolf Chua
These two should thank their lucky stars if they don't get cut. Lastimosa has an edge because of his last name.
Saint Francis of Assisi College System (2) - Raymond Ilagan, Ronoel Guevarra
They are in the same position as the CSB players above.
Jose Rizal University (2) - Nate Matute, Byron Villarias
They are in the same boat as with the previous two as well.
Here are my comments on how each team did on Sunday with updated analysis that reflects the transactions that has occurred since. Here they are in order from most players drafted with the ones who selected earliest going first.
Globalport Batang Pier - Terrence Romeo, RR Garcia, Isaac Holstein, Nico Salva, Jopher Custodio, LA Revilla
Team owner Mikee Romero made the most of having three picks in the first round by selecting Romeo, Garcia, and Holstein. He then scored Salva in the second round, as well as Custodio and Revilla in the third round before passing in the fourth round, the first team to do so. Since then, Holstein was dealt away to San Mig Coffee for first round draft pick Justin Chua and Leo Najorda.
One thing that is apparent with Globalport is that they just got bigger. Batang Pier were able to acquire Enrico Villanueva in a separate transaction, while that two-for-one switch for Holstein and Erik Menk signing for one year means their average height just went up. Romeo and Garcia will essentially fill Gary David's scoring by committee, although I am not sure how coach Junel Baculi will utilize LA Revilla in a guard-heavy rotation. But we'll never know as he might end up this season's Emman Monfort.
Rain or Shine Elastopainters - Raymond Almazan, Alex Nuyles, Jeric Teng, Gayford Rodriguez, Ervic Vijandre
Almazan, Nuyles, and Teng will most likely be tendered with contracts. Gayford Rodriguez, at the ripe age of 28, does not have time on his side, which means he has to deliver during this short preseason to merit a slot. Drafting Vijandre might just be for shits and giggles, but I can see him becoming a Rain or Shine spokesperson or a PBA ambassador at the very least. If he gets cut, he can haggle a contract to become a TV5 talent instead.
Barako Bull Energy Cola - Jeric Fortuna, Carlo Lastimosa, Darwin Cordero, Jett Vidal, Mike Silungan
Despite trading away their three first round draft picks, Barako Bull made up for it by drafting late. Fortuna is the only one I see with a realistic chance of getting signed as Lastimosa, Vidal, and Silungan are virtually a carbon copy of each other. The verdict is still out with Cordero. Besides, they still have a 20-odd pool to choose from outside of Danny Seigle refusing to sign with the PBA's trade fodder.
Talk 'N Text Tropang Texters - John Paul Erram, Robby Celiz, Eliud Poligrates, Omping Sumalinog, Byron Villiarias
One thing that I realized with the current draft system is that not all those whose names got called are assured of seeing action in the PBA, while those who got undrafted stay that way forever. The reason I am saying this is that I don't see anyone from those that Talk 'N Text selected generating an impact immediately.
The Tropang Texters are so stacked right now, they'll be lucky if they get a token contract. Erram will probably be the next Rob Reyes at the least, and if the other four can be converted to a complimentary wing player, then that's the best that I can see them as for the time being.
Air21 Express - Eric Camson, Joshua Webb, Angelo Ingco, Randolf Chua, Jens Knuttel
Since coach Franz Pumaren opted to go for Camson and Webb, another Lasallian alumnus in Romero was able to nab Revilla after dealing for Ginebra's third round pick. I'm not sure if that counts as a troll move or if Globalport sincerely wanted to get the former San Beda Red Cub since the Express are in need of a dependable point guads. This is where Knuttel comes in despite the fact he was picked way, way late in the draft.
Meralco Bolts - Anjo Caram, Mike Parala, Mark Lopez, Ronoel Guevarra, Mark Bringas
A team that did not get TV time on Sunday as they only started drafting in the third round, they got busy and took five players. Caram and Lopez are serviceable at the least, Parala is a project, and Guevarra and Bringas are bubble players.
Barangay Ginebra San Miguel Kings - Greg Slaughter, James Forrester, John Usita, Alvin Padilla
This is, to my opinion, the next best set of players that was taken in the first round after Globalport's windfall. You've got high potential players Slaughter and Forrester and they are able to fill Ginebra's immediate need. Padilla is pretty much lucky if he becomes the Kings' 13th player as Usita already got cut. Also, they were able to acquire Globalport's first round draft pick next year.
San Mig Coffee Mixers - Ian Sangalang, Justin Chua, Justin Melton, JR Cawaling
If Barangay Ginebra were able to get the best talent in the first round, the Coffee Mixers got the best picks overall. Sanglanag is a shoo-in, Chua has been converted to Holstein since then, Melton was a steal in the second round, and JR Cawaling, despite falling to the third round, should get a contract at the very least.
Alaska Aces - Ryan Buenafe, Chris Excimiano, Raymond Ilagan
For someone who did not attend the rookie camp, it is a surprise that Ryan Buenafe was picked high, although he is a dependable talent and proven winner. Excimiano is seen as a smaller version of Calvin Abueva, and it remains to be seen how he will fit in the backcourt rotation of head coach Luigi Trillo.
Petron Blaze Boosters - Sam Marata, Nate Matute
Players with duplicate skills, it will be a miracle if Marata and Matute gets to step onto a PBA hardcourt considering how stacked the Blaze Boosters are. And they were able to get Yousef Taha as collateral damage in that Barako Bull rigodon in the first round. So, that's that.
Draft day winners - Globalport and San Mig Coffee
It is hard to lose if you have three first round draft picks. Batang Pier essentially went for the best talent, went tall, and were able to get what they needed. Not bad.
The Coffee Mixers, on the other hand, was quality from top to bottom. Head coach Tim Cone gets an instant impact big man in Sangalang, a token project in Holstein, a reliable point guard in Melton, and a very malleable Cawaling. In local parlance, it is what you call 'walang tapon'.
Draft day loser - Barako Bull
It is easy to lose if you have three first round draft picks and give all of them away just as that. With that statement, I think I just contradicted myself with what I said about Globalport's position. But just think about it for a moment. You give away three quality picks for scrubs and then draft more scrubs. Now, they are surprised they have a 20+-player lineup.
Schools with multiple players who got drafted
Ateneo de Manila University (6) - Greg Slaughter, Ryan Buenafe, Justin Chua, Nico Salva, John Paul Erram, Omping Sumalinog
All six is part of the Blue Eagles' five-peat, so it's no surprise they were all called up, with five of them getting picked in the first two rounds.
Far Eastern University (6) - Terrence Romeo, RR Garcia, Chris Exciminiano, JR Cawaling, Jens Knuttel, Ryan Bringas
Another school that produces caliber talent, FEU ties with fellow UAAP member school with six draft picks.
University of the Philippines (4) - Sam Marata, Mike Silungan, Alvin Padilla, Mark Lopez
With four guards getting picked, it just shows where the relative strength of the Fighting Maroons' roster is.
De La Salle University-Manila (3) - Joshua Webb, LA Revilla, Ervic Vijandre
Not a lot to see in this batch of Green Archers.
Adamson University (2) - Alexander Nuyles, Eric Camson
Nuyles was able to defy projections by getting drafted late in the first round, while Camson will be able to find a role in a thin Air21 backcourt.
University of Santo Tomas (2) - Jeric Teng, Jeric Fortuna
The two Jerics, in my opinion, are the two best picks in the second round, and they can be considered as steals.
College of Saint Benilde (2) - Carlo Lastimosa, Randolf Chua
These two should thank their lucky stars if they don't get cut. Lastimosa has an edge because of his last name.
Saint Francis of Assisi College System (2) - Raymond Ilagan, Ronoel Guevarra
They are in the same position as the CSB players above.
Jose Rizal University (2) - Nate Matute, Byron Villarias
They are in the same boat as with the previous two as well.
10/10/2013
Throwback Thursday: Red Lions make it look easy
San Beda beats Jose Rizal for 3rd straight NCAA title
By JP ABCEDE
Manila Bulletin
San Beda College turned yesterday's deciding Game 3 into a virtual scrimmage, plastering Jose Rizal University, 85-69, to win its third straight NCAA seniors basketball championship at the jampacked Araneta Coliseum.
The Bombers were never in the match after the Lions extended a 35-18 halftime lead to 59-40, with 4:12 left in the third quarter. Ogie Menor led a 14-5 tear in the third, scoring seven of his 18 points. He also had eight rebounds and shot 7-of-9 from the two-point area.
"It boiled down on proper execution defensively and offensively," said San Beda coach Frankie Lim. "My guys played well."
After two matches that went down the wire, Game 3 was devoid of drama and excitement as the Lions stamped their class early before 20,360 fans.
"We will bring the war to them. Sila naman guluhin natin," Lim told his players in the locker room prior to the game. "Start aggressive, start strong, and control the game."
It marked the second time the Lions completed a hat-trick of victories. The first came from 1934 to 1936. The title was the Lions' 14th, just two short of Letran's 16 championships.
Finals MVP Sam Ekwe led the champs with 20 points, 19 rebounds, and three blocks in 36 minutes.
"He (Ekwe) did a great job on (James) Sena. He stopped (Jayson) Nocom from hitting those outside shots," Lim said. "He is the MVP of the finals and of the season. He deserved it."
Ekwe and Pong Escobal went three-for-three in their NCAA career. The Talk 'N Text draftee finished his last game with 11 points, seven rebounds, and nine assists.
Other Lions who scored in double figures were Jake Pascual with 13 points, who also had seven rebounds, three blocks, and three assists, and Borgie Hermida with 11 points.
"It looked easy but it was not very easy," Lim remarked.
The Lions dominated in a number of statistical departments. They shot 45 percent from the field, and limited the Heavy Bombers to 35 percent shooting. SBC also outrebounded JRU, 53-32, 19 of those coming from the offensive end, which led to 17 second chance points. Jose Rizal only had 11 offensive boards for nine second chance points.
The Lions also had its running game humming with 14 fastbreak points, compared to seven by JRU.
The scores:
SBC 85 - Ekwe 20, Menor 18, Pascual 13, Escobal 11, Hermida 11, Tecson 6, Taganas 4, Gamalinda 2, Marcelo 0.
JRU 69 - Sena 24, Cagoco 16, Njei 8, Nocom 7, Bulangis 3, Wilson 3, Pradas 3, Kabigting 2, Hayes 2, Agas 1.
Quarters: 24-12, 38-29, 64-48, 85-69.
---
Note: This originally appeared in The Manila Bulletin.
Source
By JP ABCEDE
Manila Bulletin
San Beda College turned yesterday's deciding Game 3 into a virtual scrimmage, plastering Jose Rizal University, 85-69, to win its third straight NCAA seniors basketball championship at the jampacked Araneta Coliseum.
The Bombers were never in the match after the Lions extended a 35-18 halftime lead to 59-40, with 4:12 left in the third quarter. Ogie Menor led a 14-5 tear in the third, scoring seven of his 18 points. He also had eight rebounds and shot 7-of-9 from the two-point area.
"It boiled down on proper execution defensively and offensively," said San Beda coach Frankie Lim. "My guys played well."
After two matches that went down the wire, Game 3 was devoid of drama and excitement as the Lions stamped their class early before 20,360 fans.
"We will bring the war to them. Sila naman guluhin natin," Lim told his players in the locker room prior to the game. "Start aggressive, start strong, and control the game."
It marked the second time the Lions completed a hat-trick of victories. The first came from 1934 to 1936. The title was the Lions' 14th, just two short of Letran's 16 championships.
Finals MVP Sam Ekwe led the champs with 20 points, 19 rebounds, and three blocks in 36 minutes.
"He (Ekwe) did a great job on (James) Sena. He stopped (Jayson) Nocom from hitting those outside shots," Lim said. "He is the MVP of the finals and of the season. He deserved it."
Ekwe and Pong Escobal went three-for-three in their NCAA career. The Talk 'N Text draftee finished his last game with 11 points, seven rebounds, and nine assists.
Other Lions who scored in double figures were Jake Pascual with 13 points, who also had seven rebounds, three blocks, and three assists, and Borgie Hermida with 11 points.
"It looked easy but it was not very easy," Lim remarked.
The Lions dominated in a number of statistical departments. They shot 45 percent from the field, and limited the Heavy Bombers to 35 percent shooting. SBC also outrebounded JRU, 53-32, 19 of those coming from the offensive end, which led to 17 second chance points. Jose Rizal only had 11 offensive boards for nine second chance points.
The Lions also had its running game humming with 14 fastbreak points, compared to seven by JRU.
The scores:
SBC 85 - Ekwe 20, Menor 18, Pascual 13, Escobal 11, Hermida 11, Tecson 6, Taganas 4, Gamalinda 2, Marcelo 0.
JRU 69 - Sena 24, Cagoco 16, Njei 8, Nocom 7, Bulangis 3, Wilson 3, Pradas 3, Kabigting 2, Hayes 2, Agas 1.
Quarters: 24-12, 38-29, 64-48, 85-69.
---
Note: This originally appeared in The Manila Bulletin.
Source
Azkals to defend Philippine Peace Cup this weekend
After losing to Indonesia in a friendly in August, the Philippine men's seniors football team is back on the pitch this weekend as they are set to defend the championship they won last year, the Philippine Peace Cup.
The difference this time around is that the competition will be held at the Panaad Stadium in Bacolod, Negros Occidental, and that instead of four teams, there will only be three. Gone are Guam and Macau, and in their place is Pakistan.
Chinese Taipei has been the other consistent participant aside from the Philippines ever since its Long Teng Cup iteration, and the two will kick off the tournament on October 11 at 7pm. Two days later, it will be the South Asian squad testing the East Asian country at 4pm, and finally, the Cup will be capped on October 15 with the Azkals facing Pakistan.
Expected to lead the charge for the locals are European top flight booters Stephan Schrock and Neil Etheridge. They will be reinforced by old hands Rob Gier, Juani Guirado, and Jerry Lucena. They will be supplanted by local-based players Phil and James Younghusband, OJ Porteria, Chieffy Caligdong, and Chris Greatwich.
If head coach Hans Weiss will field his strongest 11, the expected starting lineup will be composed of Etheridge between the sticks; Gier, Guirado, Lucena, and Patrick Reichelt at the back; Schrock, Greatwich, Jeffrey Christiaens, and Mark Hartmann at midfield; and Phil Younghusband and Porteria up front.
Last year, the Philippines swept the competition en route to the title, conceding only a solitary goal which came in the final match against Chinese Taipei. It is easy to see them duplicating the feat since the country is the highest-ranked team in the tournament since the two other squads are hovering around the 170 mark.
According to the Azkals' official website, this tournament will start off a series of tuneup matches in preparation for next year's AFC Challenge Cup in Maldives.
The difference this time around is that the competition will be held at the Panaad Stadium in Bacolod, Negros Occidental, and that instead of four teams, there will only be three. Gone are Guam and Macau, and in their place is Pakistan.
Chinese Taipei has been the other consistent participant aside from the Philippines ever since its Long Teng Cup iteration, and the two will kick off the tournament on October 11 at 7pm. Two days later, it will be the South Asian squad testing the East Asian country at 4pm, and finally, the Cup will be capped on October 15 with the Azkals facing Pakistan.
Expected to lead the charge for the locals are European top flight booters Stephan Schrock and Neil Etheridge. They will be reinforced by old hands Rob Gier, Juani Guirado, and Jerry Lucena. They will be supplanted by local-based players Phil and James Younghusband, OJ Porteria, Chieffy Caligdong, and Chris Greatwich.
If head coach Hans Weiss will field his strongest 11, the expected starting lineup will be composed of Etheridge between the sticks; Gier, Guirado, Lucena, and Patrick Reichelt at the back; Schrock, Greatwich, Jeffrey Christiaens, and Mark Hartmann at midfield; and Phil Younghusband and Porteria up front.
Last year, the Philippines swept the competition en route to the title, conceding only a solitary goal which came in the final match against Chinese Taipei. It is easy to see them duplicating the feat since the country is the highest-ranked team in the tournament since the two other squads are hovering around the 170 mark.
According to the Azkals' official website, this tournament will start off a series of tuneup matches in preparation for next year's AFC Challenge Cup in Maldives.
10/09/2013
Despite losing, Pandas enter playoffs; Lions, Lightning end season in sour note
JP Abcede
Photos courtesy of Kiko Malicdem
The Sentinels made things interesting for the Pandas in their chase for the final playoff spot in the tenth season of PExBall when they unleashed a fourth quarter onslaught to come out on top, 80-70, in the final elimination playdate on October 5 at the Cloverleaf Place Gym in Makati.
With team rep Carlo Palmares and several Panda cagers staying in the venue to await their fate, they encountered anxious moments before breathing a collective sigh of relief when the Lions put up a fight but fall short against the Walkers, 73-74.
Meanwhile, the Lightning forfeited their game against the Vanguards as they could not muster enough personnel to show up at the venue, which obligated tournament director Kiko Malicdem to award the victory to Arvy Trinidad’s wards.
The whiteshirts held the Pandas scoreless for two and a half minutes in the pivotal period as they cranked up their defense to turn a two-point gap to a 16-point bubble, 78-62, with just 2:15 remaining in the clock.
Robinson Abalos and Ed Maceda teamed up to lead their squad in scoring with 18 points apiece. The veteran also accounted for ten rebounds and seven steals, while the rookie chipped in six swipes and four assists.
Jojo Escanlar also had a double-double with 11 markers and 13 boards and Kenneth Leander had a productive afternoon with 11 while pilfering five possessions. The team had 24 steals all in all, which emphasized the effectiveness of their fullcourt pressure defense.
MJ Macapugay topscored with 22 points with Christian Sangalang and Carlo Palmares having 24 points and 21 rebounds between them. Ericson Fuertes put in ten markers and Leo Vencio contributed 13 boards, five assists, and six steals. As a team, the Pandas committed 32 turnovers.
Jeff Domingo and the Sentinels arrange a one-off against the Walkers, while black and orange-jerseyed squad has to win twice against the Wolverines to advance to the quarterfinals.
Walkers scrape past Lions
With the Pandas dropping the first game, the Lions were itching to get the win against the Walkers that would propel them to the playoffs. They were just three and some minutes short of doing that as they carried a four-point lead, 71-67, after Jeff Gonzales converted two freethrows off a foul from Jeremy dela Cruz.
Never giving up, Meynard Castillo’s wards took control as they scored the next eight points with Rian Lapizar capping the run with a basket at the 1:11 mark. A Pao Escober steal in the final minute practically sealed the Lions’ fate as Gonzales’ triple at the buzzer became a mere formality.
Escobar had MVP-like numbers, leading all scorers with 33 points, while corralling 20 rebounds, and grabbing five steals. Joey Santos also lit the scoreboard with 29.
Abeth Pinili was back to his old self in this fixture as he finished with 20 points on 8/12 field goal shooting and eight rebounds. Gonzales finished the season with 16 markers and 11 boards. Kevin Aladin chalked up 16 points, 14 caroms, and three steals.
The Lions conclude the season at 11th place, just ahead of the Lightning, which decided not to show up in their final assignment this year.
All-Star game and side events lined up on Saturday
The league takes a break for a week to make way for the annual All-Star game featuring the Dark Team coached by Renvic Catanghal of the Spartans facing the Light Team of Emer Rapin of the Wolverines. Last year, the Dark Team won against the Light Team in the inaugural All-Star match.
This year’s sidelights include the three-point shootout, the halfcourt shot, the obstacle course race, and the shooting stars event. The Pandas’ Macapugay will defend his crown in the three-point shootout, Tristan Taboac of the Packers will once again try his marksmanship from halfcourt, and defending obstacle race champion Omar Ilagan will attempt to make it two straight in the event.
The festivities will start at 3:30pm.
Source
Photos courtesy of Kiko Malicdem
The Sentinels made things interesting for the Pandas in their chase for the final playoff spot in the tenth season of PExBall when they unleashed a fourth quarter onslaught to come out on top, 80-70, in the final elimination playdate on October 5 at the Cloverleaf Place Gym in Makati.
With team rep Carlo Palmares and several Panda cagers staying in the venue to await their fate, they encountered anxious moments before breathing a collective sigh of relief when the Lions put up a fight but fall short against the Walkers, 73-74.
Meanwhile, the Lightning forfeited their game against the Vanguards as they could not muster enough personnel to show up at the venue, which obligated tournament director Kiko Malicdem to award the victory to Arvy Trinidad’s wards.
The whiteshirts held the Pandas scoreless for two and a half minutes in the pivotal period as they cranked up their defense to turn a two-point gap to a 16-point bubble, 78-62, with just 2:15 remaining in the clock.
Robinson Abalos and Ed Maceda teamed up to lead their squad in scoring with 18 points apiece. The veteran also accounted for ten rebounds and seven steals, while the rookie chipped in six swipes and four assists.
Jojo Escanlar also had a double-double with 11 markers and 13 boards and Kenneth Leander had a productive afternoon with 11 while pilfering five possessions. The team had 24 steals all in all, which emphasized the effectiveness of their fullcourt pressure defense.
MJ Macapugay topscored with 22 points with Christian Sangalang and Carlo Palmares having 24 points and 21 rebounds between them. Ericson Fuertes put in ten markers and Leo Vencio contributed 13 boards, five assists, and six steals. As a team, the Pandas committed 32 turnovers.
Jeff Domingo and the Sentinels arrange a one-off against the Walkers, while black and orange-jerseyed squad has to win twice against the Wolverines to advance to the quarterfinals.
Walkers scrape past Lions
With the Pandas dropping the first game, the Lions were itching to get the win against the Walkers that would propel them to the playoffs. They were just three and some minutes short of doing that as they carried a four-point lead, 71-67, after Jeff Gonzales converted two freethrows off a foul from Jeremy dela Cruz.
Never giving up, Meynard Castillo’s wards took control as they scored the next eight points with Rian Lapizar capping the run with a basket at the 1:11 mark. A Pao Escober steal in the final minute practically sealed the Lions’ fate as Gonzales’ triple at the buzzer became a mere formality.
Escobar had MVP-like numbers, leading all scorers with 33 points, while corralling 20 rebounds, and grabbing five steals. Joey Santos also lit the scoreboard with 29.
Abeth Pinili was back to his old self in this fixture as he finished with 20 points on 8/12 field goal shooting and eight rebounds. Gonzales finished the season with 16 markers and 11 boards. Kevin Aladin chalked up 16 points, 14 caroms, and three steals.
The Lions conclude the season at 11th place, just ahead of the Lightning, which decided not to show up in their final assignment this year.
All-Star game and side events lined up on Saturday
The league takes a break for a week to make way for the annual All-Star game featuring the Dark Team coached by Renvic Catanghal of the Spartans facing the Light Team of Emer Rapin of the Wolverines. Last year, the Dark Team won against the Light Team in the inaugural All-Star match.
This year’s sidelights include the three-point shootout, the halfcourt shot, the obstacle course race, and the shooting stars event. The Pandas’ Macapugay will defend his crown in the three-point shootout, Tristan Taboac of the Packers will once again try his marksmanship from halfcourt, and defending obstacle race champion Omar Ilagan will attempt to make it two straight in the event.
The festivities will start at 3:30pm.
Source
UFL shorts, 10/09/13
Green Archers United won against Nomads, 1-0, on October 8 at the Emperador Stadium in McKinley Hill, Taguig to secure third place in the United Football League Preseason tournament. In the 30th minute, Reynald Villareal's strike rolled towards the far post, far away for Nomads keeper Russel Pierson to reach, for the only goal that evening.
The finals between Global and Loyola Meralco Sparks will be played tomorrow evening, also at the Emperador Stadium.
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UFL rumor #1: A certain UFL division one club withdrew from the Cup citing that they do not have enough players in their lineup. Depends on who you asked, either they were not able to submit their roster on time or they did not bother to do so. It remains to be seen if they can muster enough manpower by the time the League kicks off next year. If they can't, will the League elevate a division two club or will we see a decrease of teams in the top flight? It has been reported that Nomads will ply their trade on division two where the "five-import limit" is not yet imposed.
UFL rumor #2: It is speculated that several non-UFL clubs which were committed to participate in this year's Cup backed out because the group draws did not go their way.
UFL rumor #3: It has been found out that a certain non-UFL club will field a roster composed of foreigners after officials received their documents. It has not been announced what they plan to do with this club, whether to sanction them or not with only three days to go before the Cup starts. Nomads declined to compete out of courtesy since they cannot commit to the "five-import limit", how come this club can?
The finals between Global and Loyola Meralco Sparks will be played tomorrow evening, also at the Emperador Stadium.
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UFL rumor #1: A certain UFL division one club withdrew from the Cup citing that they do not have enough players in their lineup. Depends on who you asked, either they were not able to submit their roster on time or they did not bother to do so. It remains to be seen if they can muster enough manpower by the time the League kicks off next year. If they can't, will the League elevate a division two club or will we see a decrease of teams in the top flight? It has been reported that Nomads will ply their trade on division two where the "five-import limit" is not yet imposed.
UFL rumor #2: It is speculated that several non-UFL clubs which were committed to participate in this year's Cup backed out because the group draws did not go their way.
UFL rumor #3: It has been found out that a certain non-UFL club will field a roster composed of foreigners after officials received their documents. It has not been announced what they plan to do with this club, whether to sanction them or not with only three days to go before the Cup starts. Nomads declined to compete out of courtesy since they cannot commit to the "five-import limit", how come this club can?
10/07/2013
SBP, NBA hold coaching clinic
The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas, together with the National Basketball Association, will hold a coaches' clinic on October 8, 4pm, at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.
This is in line with the different programs the NBA has been organizing to promote the sport and the league around the world. On October 10, the Indiana Pacers will go up against the Houston Rockets at the MOA Arena in a preseason game dubbed the NBA Global Games.
Registration will start at 3pm. For more information, email sbp.nbacoachesclinic@gmail.com
This is in line with the different programs the NBA has been organizing to promote the sport and the league around the world. On October 10, the Indiana Pacers will go up against the Houston Rockets at the MOA Arena in a preseason game dubbed the NBA Global Games.
Registration will start at 3pm. For more information, email sbp.nbacoachesclinic@gmail.com
10/03/2013
CEU completes NAASCU grand slam
Centro Escolar University swept all three basketball competitions in the National Athletic Association of Schools, Colleges, and Universities to showcase their dominance in that sport in that league.
The Scorpions won their first title in men's basketball after winning their rubber match against erstwhile champion St. Clare College of Caloocan, 64-58. Their only loss of the season was the 68-70 defeat they suffered in the first game of the finals.
The CEU Lady Scorpions completed a sweep of the tournament after trouncing Rizal Technological University in the second game of the finals, 76-32. The Junior Scorpions completed the hat trick of championships after routing Our Lady of Fatima University, 75-58.
The Scorpions won their first title in men's basketball after winning their rubber match against erstwhile champion St. Clare College of Caloocan, 64-58. Their only loss of the season was the 68-70 defeat they suffered in the first game of the finals.
The CEU Lady Scorpions completed a sweep of the tournament after trouncing Rizal Technological University in the second game of the finals, 76-32. The Junior Scorpions completed the hat trick of championships after routing Our Lady of Fatima University, 75-58.
Throwback Thursday: Fencers retain overall championship
December 02, 2005
(From Philippine Daily Inquirer)
Byline: JP Abcede
THE MAGIC NUMBER WAS FIVE going into the last day, and the Philippines reached that target by ruling the men's team foil at the close of the 23rd Southeast Asian Games fencing competition yesterday at the San Juan Gymnasium.
The Philippines prevailed, 45-37, over Vietnam in the finals and retained the overall title with a haul of five golds, two silvers, and six bronzes, its most productive output since the 1993 SEA Games. They improved on their 4-4-1 tally in the Vietnam SEA Games.
Thailand placed second with a 3-5-4 gold-silver-bronze record, and Vietnam was third with 2-4-7.
The Filipinos turned back Thailand in the men's team foil semis, 45-38, as Ramil Endriano recovered from his bronze-medal performance in the men's individual foil by scoring the last four hits against Nontapat Panchan in the final round. In one instance, Endriano caught the Thai in the air in an offensive gem that received a thundering response from the crowd.
Indonesia got the bronze in men's team foil.
Nevertheless, the Thais gave the Filipinos a scare earlier in the day after taking the men's sabre finals, 45-40, as RP anchor Walbert Mendoza failed to overcome a 36-40 deficit against Wiradesch Kothny.
"If the team wins, four guys are happy. If you win alone, it's only you who is happy," the Thai Olympian said.
Vietnam and Indonesia took the two bronze medals in men's team sabre.
Singapore won its first gold medal in the event after taking the women's team foil competition by overcoming Vietnam, 44-40.
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Note: This originally appeared in the Philippine Daily Inquirer.
UAAP roundup, 10/02/13
Basketball
Kevin Ferrer took the spotlight in the first game of the UAAP men's basketball finals as his three-pointer in the :41.6 mark proved to be the key bucket for the University of Santo Tomas Growling Tigers in defeating the De La Salle Green Archers, 73-72, on October 2 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, to take a 1-0 lead in their championship series.
Ferrer's trey gave the Tigers a four-point cushion, enough to hold off Jeron Teng's completed three-point play at the next possession and a miscue on their end that nearly cost them the game. Almond Vosotros' open three-pointer from the right wing was off-target, while LA Revilla's heave from inside the paint was partially deflected by Karim Abdul as time expired in the ensuing loose ball scrum.
UST will try to close off the basketball tournament on Saturday.
Meanwhile, the National University Lady Bulldogs extended their women's finals series to a do-or-die match by trouncing the De La Salle Lady Archers, 67-52. The third game will be played on Saturday after the awarding ceremonies for the basketball tournament.
Terrence Romeo of Far Eastern University will take home the MVP trophy, while Kyles Lao of University of the Philippines was determined to be the best freshman in men's basketball this season. Joining Romeo in the mythical team are Roi Sumang of University of the East, Bobby Ray Parks of NU, Jason Perkins of De La Salle, and Abdul.
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Beach volleyball
NU took their thrice-to-win advantage to the hilt in men's beach volleyball as the Bulldogs beat UST in three matches. Edwin Tolentino was declared the MVP.
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Badminton
In men's badminton, NU took the first match against top seed Ateneo de Manila to make it a virtual race-to-two for the championship. Meanwhile, the Lady Eagles swept the tournament by going 2-0 against De La Salle in the finals. Maria Bianca Ysabel Carlos of Ateneo was the MVP, while Pauline Marie Tan of UP was rookie of the year.
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Table tennis
In women's table tennis, De La Salle swept the eliminations to gain a one-win advantage against UP, which defeated UST to advance to the finals.
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Judo
In the two-day judo tournament, ADMU took the championship in the men's and junior's divisions, dethroning UST. De La Salle averted a sweep of their rivals in the competition by taking the women's judo trophy.
Matthew Simon Jao and Ralph Christian Sapi of Ateneo were the MVP and ROY in men's judo, respectively. Nicole Ridgel More of De La Salle was the MVP in the women's division while Lorelei Tolentino of UST took best rookie honors. Finally, Rean Gonzales of Ateneo High School grabbed both the MVP and ROY awards in the juniors division.
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Taekwondo
The De La Salle Green Jins were the champions in men's taekwondo with Kevin Sia emerging as the MVP. Juan Miguel Ramos of UST was the rookie of the year.
Meanwhile, it was UST which dominated the women's side of the competition with Nicole Abigail Cham getting the MVP award. Wee Dee Valenzuela of Ateneo was the ROY.
University of the East came out on top in the juniors division as Pages King Philip Pineda and Clifferson Scott Romuar were MVP and ROY, respectively.
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Overall championship
Excluding events which are still ongoing as of posting time, UP leads with 101 points after winning championships in swimming and runner up finishes in taekwondo and judo. Two points behind is De La Salle, which finished first place in men's taekwondo and women's judo. The Taft-based university is effectively ahead with three teams currently in the finals of their respective divisions with State only figuring in one.
Ateneo and UST are close behind with just three points separating them from the Green Archers, sharing four championships between them and potentially earning more before the semester is over. NU, with 29 points to show so far among the competitions that have concluded, is expected to leapfrog in the standings once their points in the events they are strong in are figured in the equation.
Kevin Ferrer took the spotlight in the first game of the UAAP men's basketball finals as his three-pointer in the :41.6 mark proved to be the key bucket for the University of Santo Tomas Growling Tigers in defeating the De La Salle Green Archers, 73-72, on October 2 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, to take a 1-0 lead in their championship series.
Ferrer's trey gave the Tigers a four-point cushion, enough to hold off Jeron Teng's completed three-point play at the next possession and a miscue on their end that nearly cost them the game. Almond Vosotros' open three-pointer from the right wing was off-target, while LA Revilla's heave from inside the paint was partially deflected by Karim Abdul as time expired in the ensuing loose ball scrum.
UST will try to close off the basketball tournament on Saturday.
Meanwhile, the National University Lady Bulldogs extended their women's finals series to a do-or-die match by trouncing the De La Salle Lady Archers, 67-52. The third game will be played on Saturday after the awarding ceremonies for the basketball tournament.
Terrence Romeo of Far Eastern University will take home the MVP trophy, while Kyles Lao of University of the Philippines was determined to be the best freshman in men's basketball this season. Joining Romeo in the mythical team are Roi Sumang of University of the East, Bobby Ray Parks of NU, Jason Perkins of De La Salle, and Abdul.
---
Beach volleyball
NU took their thrice-to-win advantage to the hilt in men's beach volleyball as the Bulldogs beat UST in three matches. Edwin Tolentino was declared the MVP.
---
Badminton
In men's badminton, NU took the first match against top seed Ateneo de Manila to make it a virtual race-to-two for the championship. Meanwhile, the Lady Eagles swept the tournament by going 2-0 against De La Salle in the finals. Maria Bianca Ysabel Carlos of Ateneo was the MVP, while Pauline Marie Tan of UP was rookie of the year.
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Table tennis
In women's table tennis, De La Salle swept the eliminations to gain a one-win advantage against UP, which defeated UST to advance to the finals.
---
Judo
In the two-day judo tournament, ADMU took the championship in the men's and junior's divisions, dethroning UST. De La Salle averted a sweep of their rivals in the competition by taking the women's judo trophy.
Matthew Simon Jao and Ralph Christian Sapi of Ateneo were the MVP and ROY in men's judo, respectively. Nicole Ridgel More of De La Salle was the MVP in the women's division while Lorelei Tolentino of UST took best rookie honors. Finally, Rean Gonzales of Ateneo High School grabbed both the MVP and ROY awards in the juniors division.
---
Taekwondo
The De La Salle Green Jins were the champions in men's taekwondo with Kevin Sia emerging as the MVP. Juan Miguel Ramos of UST was the rookie of the year.
Meanwhile, it was UST which dominated the women's side of the competition with Nicole Abigail Cham getting the MVP award. Wee Dee Valenzuela of Ateneo was the ROY.
University of the East came out on top in the juniors division as Pages King Philip Pineda and Clifferson Scott Romuar were MVP and ROY, respectively.
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Overall championship
Excluding events which are still ongoing as of posting time, UP leads with 101 points after winning championships in swimming and runner up finishes in taekwondo and judo. Two points behind is De La Salle, which finished first place in men's taekwondo and women's judo. The Taft-based university is effectively ahead with three teams currently in the finals of their respective divisions with State only figuring in one.
Ateneo and UST are close behind with just three points separating them from the Green Archers, sharing four championships between them and potentially earning more before the semester is over. NU, with 29 points to show so far among the competitions that have concluded, is expected to leapfrog in the standings once their points in the events they are strong in are figured in the equation.
9/27/2013
Basketball roundup, 09/27/13
PBA
Higher seeded teams Petron Blaze Boosters and Rain or Shine Elasto Painters eliminated their respective opponents to arrange a semifinals faceoff against each other in the PBA Governor's Cup.
The defending champions edged GlobalPort Batang Pier, 108-106, while Petron saw its 25-point lead turn to dust in the fourth period before utilizing their auxiliary power to put away the Barangay Ginebra Gin Kings, 101-94.
After the Kings caught up to within one, the Blaze Boosters unleashed a 9-0 run to distance themselves from their pursuers, 100-90. Arwind Santos was one of the bright spots for Petron as he came up with 17 points, 13 rebounds, and four blocks.
The victors will start their best-of-five encounter on September 30, while the Alaska Aces and the San Mig Coffee Mixers will go at it one more time today to determine which side will go opposite the Meralco Bolts in the semis.
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NCAA
The San Beda Red Lions notched their 12th win of this year's NCAA seniors basketball season by defeating the University of Perpetual Help Altas in overtime, 78-76, at the FilOil-Flying V Arena in San Juan.
Rome dela Rosa found Art dela Cruz underneath for an inside basket, :12.1 in the clock, for the game-winning bucket. At the other end, Juneric Baloria flubbed his three-point attempt which could have given his team the victory.
San Beda solidified its hold of the top spot in the standings, while Perpetual Help drops to 11-4.
The Lions started the contest red hot, scoring the game's first 12 points. They then led by 21 going into the final period before coach Aric del Rosario's wards fought their way back. With time winding down in regulation, Nosa Omorogbe swished a contested three-pointer from faraway to send the game into overtime.
In the first game, the Emilio Aguinaldo College Generals made sure they are still in the hunt for a final four spot as they won their seventh in 14 contests courtesy of the Lyceum Pirates, 71-63. Just like the other ballgame, EAC seized control for majority of the match before LPU staged a comeback in the fourth period only to fall short in the end.
In juniors basketball, Immaculate Conception Academy beat Lyceum, 78-76, while the Red Cubs blasted UPHSD, 98-63.
Higher seeded teams Petron Blaze Boosters and Rain or Shine Elasto Painters eliminated their respective opponents to arrange a semifinals faceoff against each other in the PBA Governor's Cup.
The defending champions edged GlobalPort Batang Pier, 108-106, while Petron saw its 25-point lead turn to dust in the fourth period before utilizing their auxiliary power to put away the Barangay Ginebra Gin Kings, 101-94.
After the Kings caught up to within one, the Blaze Boosters unleashed a 9-0 run to distance themselves from their pursuers, 100-90. Arwind Santos was one of the bright spots for Petron as he came up with 17 points, 13 rebounds, and four blocks.
The victors will start their best-of-five encounter on September 30, while the Alaska Aces and the San Mig Coffee Mixers will go at it one more time today to determine which side will go opposite the Meralco Bolts in the semis.
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NCAA
The San Beda Red Lions notched their 12th win of this year's NCAA seniors basketball season by defeating the University of Perpetual Help Altas in overtime, 78-76, at the FilOil-Flying V Arena in San Juan.
Rome dela Rosa found Art dela Cruz underneath for an inside basket, :12.1 in the clock, for the game-winning bucket. At the other end, Juneric Baloria flubbed his three-point attempt which could have given his team the victory.
San Beda solidified its hold of the top spot in the standings, while Perpetual Help drops to 11-4.
The Lions started the contest red hot, scoring the game's first 12 points. They then led by 21 going into the final period before coach Aric del Rosario's wards fought their way back. With time winding down in regulation, Nosa Omorogbe swished a contested three-pointer from faraway to send the game into overtime.
In the first game, the Emilio Aguinaldo College Generals made sure they are still in the hunt for a final four spot as they won their seventh in 14 contests courtesy of the Lyceum Pirates, 71-63. Just like the other ballgame, EAC seized control for majority of the match before LPU staged a comeback in the fourth period only to fall short in the end.
In juniors basketball, Immaculate Conception Academy beat Lyceum, 78-76, while the Red Cubs blasted UPHSD, 98-63.
9/26/2013
Chicharito goal leads Man Utd past Liverpool; Arsenal wins in penalties
Chicharito made the most of his rare appearance on the pitch with a 46th minute goal, which is enough for Manchester United to hurdle past Liverpool in the third round of the Capital One Cup this early morning, Philippine time, at the Old Trafford. His goal also eclipses the return of Luis Suarez from suspension.
In other matches, Arsenal overcame West Bromwich Albion in penalties, 4-3, after regulation and extra time ended in a 1-1 standoff. Birmingham surprised defending champion Swansea, 3-1, while Newcastle and Stoke defeated lower table clubs with similar 2-0 scorelines.
The fourth round, which will be played in the last week of October, will pit Sunderland against Southampton, Leicester City hosting Fulham, Birmingham City going up against Stoke City, Manchester United facing Norwich City, West Ham United visiting Burnley, Arsenal testing Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspur meeting Hull City, and Newcastle United battling Manchester City.
In other matches, Arsenal overcame West Bromwich Albion in penalties, 4-3, after regulation and extra time ended in a 1-1 standoff. Birmingham surprised defending champion Swansea, 3-1, while Newcastle and Stoke defeated lower table clubs with similar 2-0 scorelines.
The fourth round, which will be played in the last week of October, will pit Sunderland against Southampton, Leicester City hosting Fulham, Birmingham City going up against Stoke City, Manchester United facing Norwich City, West Ham United visiting Burnley, Arsenal testing Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspur meeting Hull City, and Newcastle United battling Manchester City.
San Sebastian, Letran bag NCAA chess titles
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| San Sebastian College Recoletos won the NCAA seniors chess division for the second straight year. Photo: Jan Dizon |
The San Sebastian college seniors chess team copped their second straight NCAA chess trophy on September 22 at the Colegio de San Juan de Letran Gym in Muralla, Intramuros. Letran, meanwhile, took the juniors crown.
The Stags compiled 58 points after 18 rounds, eight points clear of runner up College of Saint Benilde. Emilio Aguinaldo finished third with 43.5 points.
FIDE Master Mari Joseph Turqueza took home MVP honors and the gold medal in Board 1, while National Master Homer Cunanan of SSCR is coach of the year. Adrian Perez and Alexis Emil Maribao took the gold medal in Boards 2 and 3 to highlight San Sebastian's dominance this season.
Other gold medal awardees include Hans Christian Balingit of College Saint Benilde (Board 4), Lyceum of the Philippines University's Romy Fagon (Board 5), and Mapua Institute of Technology's Paolo Angelo Garcia (Board 6).
The rest of the schools finished in this order: LPU, 41.5; Arellano University, 41; CSJL, 38.5; MIT, 37; San Beda College, 34; University of Perpetual Help System Dalta, 8.5; Jose Rizal University, 8.
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| The Colegio de San Juan junior chess team and Fr. Vic Calvo pose with their trophy. Photo: Jan Dizon |
Over at the juniors division, Letran accumulated 64 points to take its second consecutive diadem. Arellano and SBC concluded in second and third with 59 and 46 points.
FM Paulo Bersamina of Letran is the juniors division MVP, while NM Roland Joseph Perez is the coach of the year. The Squires also took the gold medals in Boards 2 and 3, courtesy of Melwyn Kenneth Baltazar and John Fleer Donguines.
Kyz Llantada of AU and Joshov Alekhine Rosarda are co-Board 4 gold medalists, as Karl Vincent Andres (Board 5) of Immaculate Conception Academy and Ynna Sophia Canape (Board 6) of Arellano round up the individual champions.
LPU finished with 45 points, while La Salle Greenhills came up with 40. The rest of the field are as follows: SSCR, 35.5; ICA, 32; UPHSD, 28.5; Malayan High School of Science, 8; JRU, 2.
Throwback Thursday: Tams heave a sigh of relief against Bulldogs, 86-85
by JP Abcede
July 31, 2004
Edwin Asoro won the game... for the Tamaraws.
Actually, Don Yabut did. But his split freethrows coming from the gravest mistake in basketball - fouling someone with the score tied with the game virtually over - that was committed by Asoro gave Far Eastern University an 86-85 overtime victory against National University at the PhilSports Arena on the last day of July as the first round of the UAAP men's basketball eliminations nears its end.
Surviving a slow start and a resilient Bulldogs squad biting for its first win, the Tams' fourth triumph was more of a relief rather than delight for them.
"It was really a miracle. Denok (Miranda) was out late in the third quarter (due to exhaustion), lahat kami na-foul trouble. Hindi ko alam kung ano ang tumama sa amin," surmised FEU men's basketball coach Koy Banal.
It was an Arwind Santos-Rey Mendoza showdown as their whatever-you-could-do-I-could-do-better match-up was one of the sidelights of the exciting match. Both finished with 28 points but Santos won both the battle and the war by shooting better, swatting more shots, and of course, getting the all-important win.
Miranda, despite being used sparingly in the final period, still had 17 points and five assists. Jeffrei Chan picked up the slack from the struggling RJ Rizada with 12 markers and eight rebounds.
On the other hand, the game's goat, Asoro, ended up with 13 points and nine boards for the Bulldogs.
July 31, 2004
Edwin Asoro won the game... for the Tamaraws.
Actually, Don Yabut did. But his split freethrows coming from the gravest mistake in basketball - fouling someone with the score tied with the game virtually over - that was committed by Asoro gave Far Eastern University an 86-85 overtime victory against National University at the PhilSports Arena on the last day of July as the first round of the UAAP men's basketball eliminations nears its end.
Surviving a slow start and a resilient Bulldogs squad biting for its first win, the Tams' fourth triumph was more of a relief rather than delight for them.
"It was really a miracle. Denok (Miranda) was out late in the third quarter (due to exhaustion), lahat kami na-foul trouble. Hindi ko alam kung ano ang tumama sa amin," surmised FEU men's basketball coach Koy Banal.
It was an Arwind Santos-Rey Mendoza showdown as their whatever-you-could-do-I-could-do-better match-up was one of the sidelights of the exciting match. Both finished with 28 points but Santos won both the battle and the war by shooting better, swatting more shots, and of course, getting the all-important win.
Miranda, despite being used sparingly in the final period, still had 17 points and five assists. Jeffrei Chan picked up the slack from the struggling RJ Rizada with 12 markers and eight rebounds.
On the other hand, the game's goat, Asoro, ended up with 13 points and nine boards for the Bulldogs.
An upset was brewing when National started the game with all cylinders running and Far Eastern playing erratic. NU had their biggest lead in the first quarter courtesy of an Asoro three-pointer to go ahead, 17-5, more than five minutes into the game, and again later with a Cesar Estolano twinner near the end, 23-11. This later ballooned to 30-17, still in favor of the 'Dogs from Sampaloc, when Mendoza beat the shot clock with a long jumper two minutes going into the second period.
Things became worse after Jerome Villanueva sprained his foot, and with Jed Cutler and Jobim Garcia out with injuries, Banal was left with a lean bench. This was when Santos responded with seven straight points to get the bovines from Morayta back into the game, 26-32, midway of the second.
However, NU kept the Tamaraws on bay by pounding the ball inside and converting their freethrows. Behn Balijon made the tally 39-26 with a layup still with more than three minutes remaining before halftime.
It was then a series of three-point conversions, either by a shot from beyond the arc or an and-one play, or in the case of Miranda, when he made three of four technical charities that were assessed to NU coach Rico Perez, which caused his ejection, that cut the deficit to one, 38-39, a blink later.
Santos had one of his moments during this sequence when he missed a three-point attempt, went for the rebound, recovered the leather, followed it up, and added spice by incurring a foul off Marlon Mollena, something the fourth year Tam was trying to do twice before.
It took an eternity before the Green and Gold crew finally went ahead when Miranda scored on a jumper, 6:18 in the third canto, 50-49. Although they managed to increase it to 54-49 when Yabut converted a jump shot from the key, their advantage was short lived as Estolano grabbed the lead back for the Bulldogs with a fade away, 2:20 left, 58-56.
Both teams suddenly found it hard to make a shot as they went blank for three minutes in the fourth period. The lull was broken when Santos scored on a putback and Paul Flores scored his only points of the game by sandwiching a Chan layup with two shots beyond the three-point line to let the Tams be in command, 73-69, 1:57 to go.
A personal and technical foul committed by Asoro gave FEU the chance to pad the lead, 75-69. Nevertheless, Jonathan Fernandez's own five freebies sent the game into overtime.
It was during the extension when it became a Mendoza-Santos shootout. Mendoza had first strike with a three-point play off Roser Mangahas. After Mangahas started the scoring for Far Eastern, Santos made a three to regain the upper hand.
Mendoza then countered with his own power move inside to tie. A minute later, Santos faked a jumper, dribbled once towards the basket, and made an uncontested shot, 83-81, in favor of his team.
Another series of exchanges between NU's veteran center and FEU's lanky power forward turned the game into a deadlock, 85-all. Mendoza almost had one over Santos when he forced the latter to commit his fifth personal with only seven seconds left. However, he flubbed his chance to take the lead by missing both freethrows.
Bulldog pointguard Ronald King grabbed the miss and Mendoza had another opportunity to take the win. Nevertheless, he missed a point blank shot and this set up the infamous Asoro miscue when Yabut held on to the ball and the rookie 'Dog was called for holding the FEU slotman with time running out.
The Tamaraws' next face-off would be against the other winless squad, University of the Philippines, on August 5, three days before their eagerly anticipated rematch against last year's runner-up Ateneo de Manila University.
The Scores :
FEU 86 -- Santos 28, Miranda 17, Chan 12, Rizada 6, Isip 6, Flores 6, Yabut 3, Mangahas 3, Villanueva 2, Adolfo 2, Dela Cruz 1, Santiago 0, Barcellano 0, Babilonia 0.
NU 85 -- Mendoza 28, Asoro 13, D. Catamora 10, Fernandez 8, King 7, Estolano 6, Balijon 6, Mollena 4, Flor 3, Malcontento 0, Moradas 0, Malagueno 0, C. Catamora 0.
Quarters: 15-24, 42-45, 58-63, 76-76, 86-85.
However, NU kept the Tamaraws on bay by pounding the ball inside and converting their freethrows. Behn Balijon made the tally 39-26 with a layup still with more than three minutes remaining before halftime.
It was then a series of three-point conversions, either by a shot from beyond the arc or an and-one play, or in the case of Miranda, when he made three of four technical charities that were assessed to NU coach Rico Perez, which caused his ejection, that cut the deficit to one, 38-39, a blink later.
Santos had one of his moments during this sequence when he missed a three-point attempt, went for the rebound, recovered the leather, followed it up, and added spice by incurring a foul off Marlon Mollena, something the fourth year Tam was trying to do twice before.
It took an eternity before the Green and Gold crew finally went ahead when Miranda scored on a jumper, 6:18 in the third canto, 50-49. Although they managed to increase it to 54-49 when Yabut converted a jump shot from the key, their advantage was short lived as Estolano grabbed the lead back for the Bulldogs with a fade away, 2:20 left, 58-56.
Both teams suddenly found it hard to make a shot as they went blank for three minutes in the fourth period. The lull was broken when Santos scored on a putback and Paul Flores scored his only points of the game by sandwiching a Chan layup with two shots beyond the three-point line to let the Tams be in command, 73-69, 1:57 to go.
A personal and technical foul committed by Asoro gave FEU the chance to pad the lead, 75-69. Nevertheless, Jonathan Fernandez's own five freebies sent the game into overtime.
It was during the extension when it became a Mendoza-Santos shootout. Mendoza had first strike with a three-point play off Roser Mangahas. After Mangahas started the scoring for Far Eastern, Santos made a three to regain the upper hand.
Mendoza then countered with his own power move inside to tie. A minute later, Santos faked a jumper, dribbled once towards the basket, and made an uncontested shot, 83-81, in favor of his team.
Another series of exchanges between NU's veteran center and FEU's lanky power forward turned the game into a deadlock, 85-all. Mendoza almost had one over Santos when he forced the latter to commit his fifth personal with only seven seconds left. However, he flubbed his chance to take the lead by missing both freethrows.
Bulldog pointguard Ronald King grabbed the miss and Mendoza had another opportunity to take the win. Nevertheless, he missed a point blank shot and this set up the infamous Asoro miscue when Yabut held on to the ball and the rookie 'Dog was called for holding the FEU slotman with time running out.
The Tamaraws' next face-off would be against the other winless squad, University of the Philippines, on August 5, three days before their eagerly anticipated rematch against last year's runner-up Ateneo de Manila University.
The Scores :
FEU 86 -- Santos 28, Miranda 17, Chan 12, Rizada 6, Isip 6, Flores 6, Yabut 3, Mangahas 3, Villanueva 2, Adolfo 2, Dela Cruz 1, Santiago 0, Barcellano 0, Babilonia 0.
NU 85 -- Mendoza 28, Asoro 13, D. Catamora 10, Fernandez 8, King 7, Estolano 6, Balijon 6, Mollena 4, Flor 3, Malcontento 0, Moradas 0, Malagueno 0, C. Catamora 0.
Quarters: 15-24, 42-45, 58-63, 76-76, 86-85.
---
Note: This originally appeared in UAAPgames.com
Sports roundup, 09/26/13
UAAP
De La Salle and National will face each other in the finals of women's basketball as the Lady Archers defeated University of Santo Tomas, 81-74, while the Lady Bulldogs had to use their twice-to-beat advantage to hurdle Adamson University. Camille Sambile of Far Eastern University is adjudged as the tournament MVP.
With National University sweeping the eliminations of juniors basketball, the Bullpups enjoy the advantage over Ateneo High School, which prevailed over Nicanor Reyes Educational Foundation in the stepladder semis. Thirdy Ravena of Ateneo is this season's MVP.
In men's beach volleyball, NU and UST are currently in the finals with the Bulldogs a game away from winning the championship. Season host Adamson won the title in the distaff side by sweeping UST in the finals. Shiela Pineda of AdU is awarded the finals MVP, Maruja Banaticla of UST took home the tournament MVP trophy, and Kyla Atienza of FEU is declared the rookie of the year.
In men's badminton, Ateneo de Manila is awaiting its opponent as NU and UST battle for the right to face the team that swept the round robin eliminations. Meanwhile, in women's badminton, it will be Ateneo and De La Salle with the Lady Eagles enjoying a one-game advantage after going immaculate in the elims.
Meanwhile, University of the Philippines was the champion in both men's and women's swimming. Individual awardees include Johansen Benedict Aguilar of De La Salle (mens' MVP), Christen Mercardo of UP (men's ROY), Anna Celiza Gonzalez of ADMU (women's MVP), and Thea Marie Caluma of Ateneo (women's ROY).
In addition, Ateneo was the champion in boys' competition, while University of the East won the girls' tournament. Gerard Christoffe Reyes (AHS, boys' MVP), Joshua Taleon (AHS, boys' ROY), Christine Jhoy Mendoza (UE, girls' MVP), and Ronalyn Joyce Lalimo (UST, girls' ROY) were the individual awardees.
Finally, UST swept the poomsae competition, winning all the gold medals at stake.
---
NCAA
NCAA basketball resumes today with the Lyceum of the Philippines University Pirates battling the Emilio Aguinaldo College Generals at 4pm at the FilOil-Flying V Arena in San Juan. The second seniors game features a pivotal match up between San Beda College and University of Perpetual Help System Dalta.
In juniors basketball, LPU will go up against Immaculate Conception Academy on 12 noon, which will be followed by the San Beda Red Cubs facing the UPHSD Altalettes
In other sports, San Beda wins the men's swimming competitions for the 12th straight year and the women's swimming event for the third consecutive season. Meanwhile, La Salle Greenhills maintained its dominance in juniors swimming for its tenth successive title.
The Mendiola-based college also dominated the men's and women's table tennis competitions. This is San Beda's fifth straight championship in the men's division, while the Red Lionesses broke College of Saint Benilde's foothold in the the women's side. Colegio de San Juan de Letran, on the other hand, took its second consecutive juniors championship.
Over in badminton, CSB swept the men's and women's division, while juniors squad LSGH did the same at their end.
Finally in chess, San Sebastian College Recoletos and the Letran Squires retained the titles they won last season.
---
NAASCU
Saint Clare College took Game One of their men's basketball finals series against Centro Escolar University, 70-68, on September 25 at the Makati Coliseum. Meanwhile, Our Lady of Fatima University defeated CEU, 67-60, in the first game of the juniors basketball finals. Finally, the Lady Scorpions are the only CEU squad that won their match as they crushed Rizal Technological University, 77-36. The second game of the finals will be played tomorrow.
---
WNBA
The WNBA conference finals will begin on September 27, Manila time, with the Minnesota Lynx going up against the Phoenix Mercury, and the Atlanta Dream facing the Indiana Fever.
---
MLB
The Boston Red Sox and the Oakland Athletics have already clinched their respective divisions in the American League, while the Detroit Tigers and Cleveland Indians are going at it in the Central Division. The Tampa Bay Rays have the inside track for one of the wild card slots as the Texas Rangers, Kansas City Royals, and New York Yankees are in the bubble.
Over at the National League, the Atlanta Braves and Los Angeles Dodgers topped their divisions, while the St. Louis Cardinals, Pittsburgh Pirates, and Cincinnati Reds are on a race on which team will head the Central Division.
---
NFL
After three weeks of action, seven teams remain undefeated. The New England Patriots and Miami Dolphins lead the way in AFC East, while the Denver Broncos and Kansas City Chiefs are the front runners in AFC West. In the NFC, the Chicago Bears, New Orleans Saints, and Seattle Seahawks still carry clean slates going into the fourth week.
---
EPL
Arsenal and Tottenham defeated their respective opponents to tie on top of the table of the Barclays Premier League with 12 points. The Gunners routed Stoke, 3-1, while the Hotspurs won, 1-0, over Cardiff last weekend.
---
La Liga
Barcelona and Atletico Madrid lead the La Liga, going six-for-six to start the season. Barca put away Real Sociedad, 4-1, while Atletico won against Osasuna, 2-1, in their most recent matches.
---
Bundesliga
After six matches, Dortmund and Bayern Munich share the top spot in the table with 16 points. In the latest fixtures, Bayern trounced Schalke, 4-0, while Borrusia Dortmund settled to a 1-1 draw with Nuremberg. Meanwhile, Stephan Shrock's club, Eintracht Frankfurt, had a 1-1 standoff against VFB Stuttgart.
---
Ligue 1
AS Monaco essentially leads the table as the club has a game in hand over Olympique de Marseilles, who both have 14 points right now. Monaco's next match will be against SC Bastia on Thursday, Philippine time.
---
AFC Champions League
Guangzhou Evergrande defeated Kashiwa Reysol, 4-1, in their first leg semis matchup in Japan, while FC Seoul won against Esteghlal, 2-0. The second leg will be played on October 2.
---
AFC Cup
Al-Kuwait thrashed New Radiant, 5-0, to advance to the semis with a 12-2 aggregate. They will meet East Bengal, which advanced with a 2-1 aggregate over Semen Padang.
In the other semis bracket, Jordan club Al-Faisaly will confront Kuwaiti club Al-Qadsia. The first leg will be played on October 1 with the second leg scheduled on October 22.
---
AFC President' Cup
Mongolian club Erchim will go up against Turkmen club Balkan to determine which side will go to the finals on September 29. A draw will suffice for Balkan to advance.
In the other group, KRL and Hilal Al-Quds are all even, but the Palestenian club leads the tiebreaker with more goals scored, thus forcing the Pakistani squad to go for the win. These crucial matches will be played on September 27.
De La Salle and National will face each other in the finals of women's basketball as the Lady Archers defeated University of Santo Tomas, 81-74, while the Lady Bulldogs had to use their twice-to-beat advantage to hurdle Adamson University. Camille Sambile of Far Eastern University is adjudged as the tournament MVP.
With National University sweeping the eliminations of juniors basketball, the Bullpups enjoy the advantage over Ateneo High School, which prevailed over Nicanor Reyes Educational Foundation in the stepladder semis. Thirdy Ravena of Ateneo is this season's MVP.
In men's beach volleyball, NU and UST are currently in the finals with the Bulldogs a game away from winning the championship. Season host Adamson won the title in the distaff side by sweeping UST in the finals. Shiela Pineda of AdU is awarded the finals MVP, Maruja Banaticla of UST took home the tournament MVP trophy, and Kyla Atienza of FEU is declared the rookie of the year.
In men's badminton, Ateneo de Manila is awaiting its opponent as NU and UST battle for the right to face the team that swept the round robin eliminations. Meanwhile, in women's badminton, it will be Ateneo and De La Salle with the Lady Eagles enjoying a one-game advantage after going immaculate in the elims.
Meanwhile, University of the Philippines was the champion in both men's and women's swimming. Individual awardees include Johansen Benedict Aguilar of De La Salle (mens' MVP), Christen Mercardo of UP (men's ROY), Anna Celiza Gonzalez of ADMU (women's MVP), and Thea Marie Caluma of Ateneo (women's ROY).
In addition, Ateneo was the champion in boys' competition, while University of the East won the girls' tournament. Gerard Christoffe Reyes (AHS, boys' MVP), Joshua Taleon (AHS, boys' ROY), Christine Jhoy Mendoza (UE, girls' MVP), and Ronalyn Joyce Lalimo (UST, girls' ROY) were the individual awardees.
Finally, UST swept the poomsae competition, winning all the gold medals at stake.
---
NCAA
NCAA basketball resumes today with the Lyceum of the Philippines University Pirates battling the Emilio Aguinaldo College Generals at 4pm at the FilOil-Flying V Arena in San Juan. The second seniors game features a pivotal match up between San Beda College and University of Perpetual Help System Dalta.
In juniors basketball, LPU will go up against Immaculate Conception Academy on 12 noon, which will be followed by the San Beda Red Cubs facing the UPHSD Altalettes
In other sports, San Beda wins the men's swimming competitions for the 12th straight year and the women's swimming event for the third consecutive season. Meanwhile, La Salle Greenhills maintained its dominance in juniors swimming for its tenth successive title.
The Mendiola-based college also dominated the men's and women's table tennis competitions. This is San Beda's fifth straight championship in the men's division, while the Red Lionesses broke College of Saint Benilde's foothold in the the women's side. Colegio de San Juan de Letran, on the other hand, took its second consecutive juniors championship.
Over in badminton, CSB swept the men's and women's division, while juniors squad LSGH did the same at their end.
Finally in chess, San Sebastian College Recoletos and the Letran Squires retained the titles they won last season.
---
NAASCU
Saint Clare College took Game One of their men's basketball finals series against Centro Escolar University, 70-68, on September 25 at the Makati Coliseum. Meanwhile, Our Lady of Fatima University defeated CEU, 67-60, in the first game of the juniors basketball finals. Finally, the Lady Scorpions are the only CEU squad that won their match as they crushed Rizal Technological University, 77-36. The second game of the finals will be played tomorrow.
---
WNBA
The WNBA conference finals will begin on September 27, Manila time, with the Minnesota Lynx going up against the Phoenix Mercury, and the Atlanta Dream facing the Indiana Fever.
---
MLB
The Boston Red Sox and the Oakland Athletics have already clinched their respective divisions in the American League, while the Detroit Tigers and Cleveland Indians are going at it in the Central Division. The Tampa Bay Rays have the inside track for one of the wild card slots as the Texas Rangers, Kansas City Royals, and New York Yankees are in the bubble.
Over at the National League, the Atlanta Braves and Los Angeles Dodgers topped their divisions, while the St. Louis Cardinals, Pittsburgh Pirates, and Cincinnati Reds are on a race on which team will head the Central Division.
---
NFL
After three weeks of action, seven teams remain undefeated. The New England Patriots and Miami Dolphins lead the way in AFC East, while the Denver Broncos and Kansas City Chiefs are the front runners in AFC West. In the NFC, the Chicago Bears, New Orleans Saints, and Seattle Seahawks still carry clean slates going into the fourth week.
---
EPL
Arsenal and Tottenham defeated their respective opponents to tie on top of the table of the Barclays Premier League with 12 points. The Gunners routed Stoke, 3-1, while the Hotspurs won, 1-0, over Cardiff last weekend.
---
La Liga
Barcelona and Atletico Madrid lead the La Liga, going six-for-six to start the season. Barca put away Real Sociedad, 4-1, while Atletico won against Osasuna, 2-1, in their most recent matches.
---
Bundesliga
After six matches, Dortmund and Bayern Munich share the top spot in the table with 16 points. In the latest fixtures, Bayern trounced Schalke, 4-0, while Borrusia Dortmund settled to a 1-1 draw with Nuremberg. Meanwhile, Stephan Shrock's club, Eintracht Frankfurt, had a 1-1 standoff against VFB Stuttgart.
---
Ligue 1
AS Monaco essentially leads the table as the club has a game in hand over Olympique de Marseilles, who both have 14 points right now. Monaco's next match will be against SC Bastia on Thursday, Philippine time.
---
AFC Champions League
Guangzhou Evergrande defeated Kashiwa Reysol, 4-1, in their first leg semis matchup in Japan, while FC Seoul won against Esteghlal, 2-0. The second leg will be played on October 2.
---
AFC Cup
Al-Kuwait thrashed New Radiant, 5-0, to advance to the semis with a 12-2 aggregate. They will meet East Bengal, which advanced with a 2-1 aggregate over Semen Padang.
In the other semis bracket, Jordan club Al-Faisaly will confront Kuwaiti club Al-Qadsia. The first leg will be played on October 1 with the second leg scheduled on October 22.
---
AFC President' Cup
Mongolian club Erchim will go up against Turkmen club Balkan to determine which side will go to the finals on September 29. A draw will suffice for Balkan to advance.
In the other group, KRL and Hilal Al-Quds are all even, but the Palestenian club leads the tiebreaker with more goals scored, thus forcing the Pakistani squad to go for the win. These crucial matches will be played on September 27.
9/25/2013
Meralco enters semis; Alaska forces sudden death playoff
The Alaska Aces recovered from 12 points down early in the final period to win, 112-105, on September 25 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum to set a date for another meeting with the San Mig Coffee Mixers.
The Coffee Mixers led 93-81 before JVee Casio targeted Wendell McKines for a transition slam dunk to cap a 17-4 rally for the Aces, midway of the fourth. Casio then canned in a four-point play for the go-ahead basket, 102-99. Another open court slam and a completed and-one play by McKines practically put the game away.
The Alaska reinforcement topscored with 38 points, while Casio had 21 markers, six assists, and three steals. Cyrus Baguio, who was one of the key players in the game for Alaska, fouled out with 17.
The Aces and San Mig Coffee will meet yet again on Friday.
Meanwhile in the first game, the Meralco Bolts upended Barako Bull Energy Cola, 86-68, to become the first team to enter the semifinals of the PBA Governor's Cup. Reynel Hugnatan was adjudged the best player of the game with 18 points, shooting 9/15 from the field, while putting in 12 rebounds and two blocks.
Games tomorrow pit the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters and GlobalPort Batang Pier in the first game to be followed by the tussle between sister teams Petron Blaze Boosters and Barangay Ginebra San Miguel Kings.
The Coffee Mixers led 93-81 before JVee Casio targeted Wendell McKines for a transition slam dunk to cap a 17-4 rally for the Aces, midway of the fourth. Casio then canned in a four-point play for the go-ahead basket, 102-99. Another open court slam and a completed and-one play by McKines practically put the game away.
The Alaska reinforcement topscored with 38 points, while Casio had 21 markers, six assists, and three steals. Cyrus Baguio, who was one of the key players in the game for Alaska, fouled out with 17.
The Aces and San Mig Coffee will meet yet again on Friday.
Meanwhile in the first game, the Meralco Bolts upended Barako Bull Energy Cola, 86-68, to become the first team to enter the semifinals of the PBA Governor's Cup. Reynel Hugnatan was adjudged the best player of the game with 18 points, shooting 9/15 from the field, while putting in 12 rebounds and two blocks.
Games tomorrow pit the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters and GlobalPort Batang Pier in the first game to be followed by the tussle between sister teams Petron Blaze Boosters and Barangay Ginebra San Miguel Kings.
De La Salle Green Archers beat FEU Tamaraws, enter finals
The De La Salle Green Archers delivered in the clutch as they defeated the Far Eastern University Tamaraws, 71-68, on September 25 at the SM Mall of Asia Arena to reach the finals of UAAP men's basketball.
Jason Perkins found Jeron Teng free for a short leaner to give the Archers the go-ahead basket, 68-66, 2:38 in the clock. Teng and LA Revilla then converted a freethrow each for a four-point lead with just 13 ticks to go. After Terrence Romeo scored in a short stab off an inbounds play, Perkins swished a charity to ice the game.
Teng, Revilla, and Norbert Torres all scored 15 points for the victors.
Carl Bryan Cruz topped FEU with 16 points, while MVP Romeo finished the season with 14 markers and three rebounds.
"I told my players to focus on what we are good at," said De La Salle men's basketball head coach Juno Sauler. "They played their hearts out in the last four minutes of the game."
The Archers await the winner of the do-or-die battle between top seed National University and upset-minded University of Santo Tomas, which will be played on Saturday.
"We just have to prepare whoever wins," Sauler shared.
Jason Perkins found Jeron Teng free for a short leaner to give the Archers the go-ahead basket, 68-66, 2:38 in the clock. Teng and LA Revilla then converted a freethrow each for a four-point lead with just 13 ticks to go. After Terrence Romeo scored in a short stab off an inbounds play, Perkins swished a charity to ice the game.
Teng, Revilla, and Norbert Torres all scored 15 points for the victors.
Carl Bryan Cruz topped FEU with 16 points, while MVP Romeo finished the season with 14 markers and three rebounds.
"I told my players to focus on what we are good at," said De La Salle men's basketball head coach Juno Sauler. "They played their hearts out in the last four minutes of the game."
The Archers await the winner of the do-or-die battle between top seed National University and upset-minded University of Santo Tomas, which will be played on Saturday.
"We just have to prepare whoever wins," Sauler shared.
Barangay Ginebra Kings complete quarterfinals cast of PBA Governor's Cup
 |
| LA Tenorio led the Kings with an all-around performance to propel them into the quarterfinals. Photo: PBA/Nuki Sabio |
The Barangay Ginebra Kings had to fend off the Talk 'N Text Tropang Texters in the fourth period to emerge victorious, 110-102, on September 24 at the Smart-Araneta Coliseum to garner the eighth seed in the PBA Governor's Cup.
After leading by as many as 21 points in the third period, the Kings witnessed their lead get trimmed down to three, 101-98, with less than three minutes remaining in their do-or-die game after Larry Fonacier spearheaded the fourth quarter attack of the Tropang Texters. LA Tenorio then took over as he scored the last seven points of his team to put Ginebra out of harm's way.
The diminutive point guard scored 24 points, shooting a perfect 11/11 from the line, and also had six rebounds, ten assists, and three steals in 39 minutes of action. Import Dior Lowhorn topscored with 31 points and grabbed ten rebounds as Chris Ellis also had a double-double with 19 markers and 12 boards. Mark Caguioa fouled out after scoring 18.
Barangay Ginebra faces sister team Petron Blaze Boosters on Thursday, and the former needs to win twice to advance to the semifinals.
Fonacier lit up the scoreboard with 31 points, while reinforcement Courtney Fells had 26 markers for TNT. Jayson Castro is the other double-digit scorer with 14.
Assessing the 2013 UFL Cup groups
 |
| It remains to be seen whether Rufo Sanchez will be teaming up with Ruben "Balut" Doctora in the 2013 UFL Cup. Photo: Kristela Anna Cruz |
Finally, the local football season is about to start, and the wait has been excruciating. Sure, the UFL Preseason Cup is currently going on to fill that gap, but it is not the same as the real thing.
On October 12, the UFL Cup will kick off with 27 teams in six groups competing this year. Reigning Cup and League champion Stallion FC, which went through a facelift during the offseason, is one of the most anticipated teams along with Global and Kaya. Some of the non-league teams worth watching include national club champion Ceres FC from Negros and the debuting Manila Jeepney.
This year's Cup will have Groups A, C, and E with five teams, while Groups B, D, and F will have four squads each. The top three teams from the former three groups will advance to the knockout rounds along with the top two clubs and the best third place team in the latter three groups.
Here are the groups broken down with some analysis on how I feel they will pan out in the Cup.
Group A
At first glance, this is Green Archers United's group to dominate. What remains to be seen is whether affiliate club Forza FC can make it to the next round or they will be frustrated yet again. Also worth noting is that this is the third straight Cup where the two clubs are group together (four if you count the Preseason Cup).
Joining these two clubs are Division Two squad Cimarron, the enigmatic Cebu Queen City FC, and the intriguing Manila Jeepney, who will be coached by Kale Alvarez. The verdict is still out on Manila Jeepney, but I will not be surprised if they are able to reach the round-of-16.
Group B
The club that stands out in this group is Loyola Meralco Sparks, and I do not think they will encounter any difficulty of reaching the next round. It is now up to the three remaining clubs on who will join the Sparks.
After a number of their players transferred to Socceroo, it remains to be seen if General Trias International is the same club that made heads turn last season. Meanwhile, the recently relegated Philippine Air Force is currently on a state of flux, while Division Two club Agila FC aims to foil plans of the other clubs of their plans.
Group C
No other group screams "group of death" than this one. You have the aforementioned Global and Ceres, a middle of the pack Division One club in PSG FC, a former Division Club side that wants to redeem itself in Navy FC, and a new club that wants to get itself recognized in Manila Tala.
By virtue of their past performances, it is safe to say that Global and the Negros Occidental-based club will go far in the tournament. I am tempted to say PSG will take the third slot in their group, but I do not want to discount the two non-Division One clubs.
Group D
After Loyola, Stallion had it lucky in the draw. The champions are expected to breeze past Philippine Army, Dolphins United, and what seems to be another Ateneo-based club in Blue Guards.
Although Army stays in Division One after wining against Union International in the playoff, Dolphins is expected to put up some challenge for the second playoff spot. Blue Guards, for now, is a big, big question mark.
Group E
It is not the group of death, but competition here is expected to be tight. First, there is newly promoted club Socceroo, and then there is the previous season's promoted club Pachanga Diliman. These two clubs who will most likely advance to the knockout rounds. Laos FC, Mendiola, and unknown entity Bright Star will slug it out for the last knockout seed with my money on the Global affiliate club.
Group F
Kaya will most likely go on to the knockout stages with relative ease, especially now that they have stocked up on talent during the break. Out to join them are two Division Two clubs Union and Manila All Japan and Cup returnee Manila Hurricanes, which was known as Manhur from two seasons back.
Among the three, Union appears to be strongest club as they nearly got promoted to the first division only to fall to Army in the playoffs. Nevertheless, I will be delighted if Manila Hurricanes pull off a surprise.
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There you have it. A brief preview of what to expect in the coming UFL Cup. Do you agree with my assessment? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.
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