UE ‘lacked push’ vs erratic Ateneo, says Pasaol

UE’s Alvin Pasaol. Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net

University of the East had one hell of a run in the face of a rebuilding Ateneo, the only problem is, the Red Warriors’ scoring outburst lasted just one quarter.

A 23-10 second quarter output was the best the Red Warriors could muster as the Blue Eagles cruised to an 84-69 victory.

After UE seized a 32-30 lead at half, the Blue Eagles responded with an 28-14 third quarter and never looked back.

READ: UAAP: Ateneo blasts UE, improves to third

“Kulang lang kami sa push,” said Alvin Pasaol after UE’s fifth loss Saturday at Mall of Asia Arena. “Yung transition opportunities di namin na-convert.”

UE forced Ateneo to turn the ball over 27 times but managed just get 10 fastbreak points.

“Sa amin lang, lalaban kami hanggang huli, kahit we are down lalaban kami.”

Pasaol scored a season-high 22 points in the loss and he credits head coach Derrick Pumaren’s motivation for offensive outburst.

“Siguro binigyan lang kami ni coach Derrick ng confidence na maglarao talaga ng best namin,” said Pasaol. “Parang ngayon kumportable na ako, ilang games na na-off ako, four games na hindi maganda nilalaro ko, ngayon medyo kumportable na ako siguro.”