Upset-seeking Falcons fall to UP after second-half collapse
Date Posted: October 1, 2024 at 02:56 PM
A dream first quarter for the Soaring Falcons went for naught as Season 86 Finalists University of the Philippines came from behind to snatch the victory, 57-69, in the UAAP 87 Men’s Basketball Tournament held September 28, at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.
Adamson unleashed an early barrage in the opening frame to erect a 26-9 advantage, built on three-point conversions from John Calisay, AJ Fransman, and Matt Erolon.
Another three-pointer from Erolon beginning the second quarter propelled the Soaring Falcons to their highest advantage at 31-9. However, the Diliman-based squad, who remained undefeated, slowly caught up to narrow down the deficit.
Adamson then appeared to run out of steam in the third frame, producing only seven markers, which allowed the Fighting Maroons to gain control of the game.
Royce Mantua sank triples halfway in the third to lock the scores at 39-all. Emman Anabo also drilled back-to-back treys to give Adamson a two-point lead at 46-44. Still, the crew from Diliman quickly responded to cut the Falcons’ lead and eventually complete the comeback in the fourth quarter.
Monty Montebon and John Calisay paced their team’s offense with 12 points apiece as the San Marcelino-based team went down to a 3-3 card.
After the heartbreaking defeat, Adamson University will attempt to reclaim victory against the streaking University of the East on October 6, at the same Pasay venue. ACM
