Undermanned Ateneo blasts Lyceum for 6-1 record in Filoil Pre-Season Cup

Kiefer Ravena rams agasint John Azores on the drive. Photo from Filoil Flying V Sports Facebook.

MANILA, Philippines — Ateneo blasted Lyceum, 84-64, despite an undermanned, injury-riddled line-up on Friday in the 2013 Filoil Flying V Hanes Premier Cup at the Arena in San Juan.

The Blue Eagles banked on a strong start and then stayed consistent on both sides of the floor to hike  their record to 6-1 before going on their summer training abroad.

“It’s always nice to see the boys put in the effort, especially on the defensive end,” said assistant coach Gabby Severino who called the shots in lieu of Bo Perasol.

Kiefer Ravena led Ateneo with a team-best 21 points, along with eight rebounds and four assists in 30 minutes of action.

“We were undermanned, that’s the reason I played most of the game. But hopefully di ganun sa UAAP. But I’ll be ready,” said Ravena in the post-game interview.

The Blue Eagles were down to nine men after swingman Von Pessumal suffered a finger injury just a few minutes in the second quarter.

But they managed — even pushing the lead to as big as 22 points, 79-57,  on a slam by Ravena on the break with 2:11 left to play.

Nico Elorde and Juami Tiongson added 17 and 11 points, in that order, as they combined for all but of Ateneo’s six triples.

The Pirates, meanwhile, remain winless in two outings in the tournament after getting outplayed — especially on the open court.

Dexter Zamora led Lyceum with 10 points, along with three rebounds.