ATENEO scuttled Far Eastern University’s spirited comeback to eke out a 69-64 win and take the solo lead in the first Jumbo Plastic Linoleum Cup 2014 Thursday at the Philippine Buddhacare gym in Quezon City.
Without key players Jolo Mendoza and twins Matt and Mike Nieto, the Eaglets leaned on the inspired plays of Brix Ramos and Sean Ildefonso—son of two-time MVP Danny Ildefonso—to notch their third straight win.
Ramos scattered 12 points aside from grabbing 5 rebounds while Ildefonso delivered 10 points and seven boards as the Eaglets stayed undefeated.
The Eaglets appeared headed for a runaway win when they took a 41-25 lead at halftime.
But Rob Aquino and Ricky Peromingan sparked FEU’s fightback that saw them close in at 53-46 going into the final 10 minutes of the preseason event also sponsored by Smart Telecommunications, K-tech Sports Inc., Powerbest Marketing, CW Home Depot, Powerhouse and Dickies Underwear