Cuan's absence hurt the game

The UST Growling Tigers failed to post a second victory against the FEU Tamaraws which pulls them down to the bottom of the standings in the main event of the Sunday game of the UAAP Season '71 on July 20, at the Philsports Arena in Pasig.

Point guard rookie Jeric Fortuna registered the first score for the Growling Tigers and sustained the initial lead to the end of the first quarter, leaving their fellow Thomasians with high spirits at 16-10.

Team Captain Japs Cuan missed the game due to operation recovery and is said to be staying out of court for 2 to 3 weeks. "Malaki ang tiwala ko sa team ko,alam kong kahit wala ako kayang kaya nila to," Cuan said. His absence deeply affected the game of the Tigers.

By the end of the second quarter, Benedict Fernandez of the FEU Tamaraws attacked their opponent's defense via a three-point shot which landed them on a one-point halftime advantage, 31-30.

With the help defense of Jervy Cruz and the high scoring of Franciz Allera, the Tigers were able to regain points and lead the game late in the third quarter. But unfortunately, Allera suffered from what looked like cramps causing him to leave the game altogether. Even after their leading scorer was gone, the Tigers were still able to end the quarter leading over the Tamaraws, 49-47.

There were numerous exchange of leads as the two teams battle it out for the 3rd spot. But there has got to be one winner.

Everyone felt the tension inside the arena as the crowd screamed for their bets. But in the end, Benedict Fernanandez of the Tamaraws delivered shots that led them to grab the victory over the Growling Tigers, 80-75. Fernandez was declared "Best Player of the Game" with 24 pts and 6 rebounds.

The UST Growling Tigers, as always, demonstrated full sportsmanship as they deal with the loss. April Aquino