FILE – San Beda coach Boyet Fernandez. Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net
MANILA, Philippines—Stricken by coronavirus late last year, San Beda only regrouped to practice as a complete team several weeks ago in time for the beginning of the NCAA men’s basketball competition.
It hardly showed late Saturday when the Season 95 runner-up demolished Lyceum, 84-76, putting its title bid on high gear at La Salle Greenhills Gym.
If he’s to grade the Red Lions’ readiness, coach Boyet Fernandez gave his wards “six to seven out of 10,” considering they only started formal training early February.
Ralph Penuela and John Bryle Bahio scored 12 points each while Winston Ynot added 10 for San Beda which is out to avenge its finals defeat at the hands of Letran in late 2019.
Enoch Valdez led the Pirates with 22 points but in the end their system couldn’t match with that of the Red Lions despite a build-up in pre-season.
“We had a hard time in our first game, I credit Lyceum for the big fight,” said Fernandez. “They have new guys, new coach (Gilbert Malabanan) and a new system. So it took us time to adjust.”
“But am happy about the way my guys adjusted, we committed a lot of turnovers tonight hopefully we have to do something about in the next games,” added Fernandez.