Surging Tams seek Final Four vs Warriors

Photo: FEU Tamaraws. Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net

After facing tremendous challenge from recent foes, Far Eastern University hopes to raise its game even more as the Tamaraws go for the first UAAP Final Four berth Saturday.

The pace-setting Tamaraws (8-1) take on the University of the East Warriors at 4 p.m. at Smart Araneta Coliseum.

La Salle, running fourth at 5-4, sets out to boost its own semifinal bid versus Adamson at 4 p.m.

“The concern is we have to adjust again because all the other teams are adjusting,” said FEU coach Nash Racela.

Although the Tamaraws trounced the Warriors in the first round, 92-81, coach Derrick Pumaren’s crew often looked poised for an upset and even swept defending champion National University in the eliminations.

But Pumaren said those mere flashes of brilliance had hurt the Warriors, who stand in the bottom half with a 3-6 record.

“We have to play the game on a consistent basis,” said Pumaren. “We’re playing only in spurts and not for 40 minutes. We cannot play in spurts if we want to make it to the next round. As I’ve said, I think we’re a better team than the record we have right now.”

Idle University of Santo Tomas (8-2) had a shot at nailing the first semifinal slot but Ateneo spoiled its first attempt last Wednesday.