FEU Tamaraws’s Xyrus Torres. –UAAP PHOTO
MANILA, Philippines —Far Eastern University supporters arrived in droves expecting a big celebration and got what they came for.
Bryan Sajonia provided that spark of hope and energized the Tamaraws in their breakthrough win at the expense of the University of Santo Tomas, 75-60, on Wednesday night at the UAAP Season 85 men’s basketball tournament.
“We’re really thankful for the support of the FEU community. It made a difference,’’ said Sajonia after tallying a career-high 23 points on perfect 9-of-9 from two points that helped the Tamaraws finally enter the win column.
Ly Gonzales and Xyrus Torres likewise came out of their shell, both of them pumping in 17 points each for the Tamaraws, who built a 17-point cushion for a comfortable lead they never relinquished.
Gonzales also had five rebounds, four assists, and one steal while Torres likewise grabbed three boards and one dime.
“The support of the FEU crowd is unbelievable even if we started at 0-5. It’s nice to get our first win,’’ said FEU coach Olsen Racela.
“The good thing about this win was everybody showed up and played. It was a collective effort unlike our previous games. The losing streak has brought our morale down, hopefully this win will help us build our confidence,’’ said Racela.
Nic Cabanero was the lone bright spot for the Growling Tigers with 20 points as they ferociously chased the Tamaraws until the final buzzer to no avail.
UST dropped its fifth match in six outings, tying the FEU at the bottom of the standings in the process with 1-5 records. –With reports from Lance Agcaoili
The Scores
FEU 75 — Sajonia 23, Torres 17, Gonzales 17, Sandagon 6, Anonuevo 5, Alforque 3, Tempra 2, Bagunu 2, Sleat 0, Celzo 0, Tchuente 0, Bautista 0, Guibao 0.
UST 60 — Cabanero 20, Lazarte 8, Manaytay 7, Mantua 7, Pangilinan 6, Calimag 5, HErrera 3, Garing 2, Manalang 2, Duremdes 0, Laure 0.
Quarters: 19-14, 40-33, 55-42, 75-60.