Far Eastern University Tamaraws test the mettle of defending champion Ateneo Blue Eagles when they clash at 4 p.m. today at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
The Tamaraws are tipped to make it to the Final Four.
After disposing of the University of the East Warriors, 81-65, last week, the Tams are hoping to stay on the winning track in the 82nd University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) men’s basketball tournament.
With the Blue Eagles in the way, the Tams will be a challenged squad when they seek their second win in three outings.
And FEU coach Olsen Racela hopes that their experienced guard, Wendell Comboy and LJ Gonzales will once again provide the needed 1-2 punch for the squad.
“The two have stepped up. We rely on our guards, and this season is no different. And that’s our rotation, one who is second year, and the other is in his first year,” said Racela.
They face a Blue Eagles team that is coming off their third straight win after beating the University of Santo Tomas Growling Tigers, 71-70, last Sunday.
And the Tams will need to play their best if they hope to beat the Blue Eagles.
And the Blue Eagles have gained more confidence going into their bid for a fourth straight triumph against the Tams.
“Lots of work to do. Mentally especially, still trying to get some players to settle into their roles. Our roster is not, you know, clicking on all cylinders yet. And that needs to happen,” said Blue Eagles coach Tab Baldwin.
In the game with the UST Tigers, the Blue Eagles drew 17 points from Thirdy Ravena, and 10 boards as well. Angelo Kouame provided 11 points and 10 rebounds.
Earlier, the La Salle Green Archers battle the UE Warriors at 2 p.m. hoping to hike their slate to 2-1.
The Warriors are fresh from an 83-82 triumph over the National University Bulldogs.
