Adamson withstands Arellano in Filoil thriller

Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net

Adamson University recovered just in time to survive Arellano University, 67-61, in the Filoil Flying V Preseason Cup Friday .

The Soaring Falcons held 50-38 lead at the end of the third but squandered most of it with just two minutes left in the game after the Chiefs trimmed the margin to one point, 62-61.

Papi Sarr, though, rescued Adamson on both ends,  scoring two free-throws to give the Soaring Falcons a 64-61 lead with 1:22 left then swatting away Archie Concepcion’s layup 21 seconds later.

Adamson head coach Franz Pumaren said his players have to experience those cardiac moments since these scenarios are vital for his team’s development.

“That’s why we’re here, we want the players to grow up, mature, and to adjust to certain scenarios,” said Pumaren whose team improved to 3-1 in Group B. “They have to adjust to the pressure of the game.”

Jerom Lastimosa then drove the dagger with his three-pointer at the 42.5-second mark punctuating Arellano’s fate.

Sarr finished with 15 points, eight rebounds, two steals, and two blocks to lead the Soaring Falcons while Jonathan Espeleta added 12 points and two steals.

Guilmer Dela Tore had a game-high 16 points for the 2-3 Chiefs.