Ateneo remains on 2nd spot after defeating rival La Salle

The Ateneo de Manila Blue Eagles retained their second spot in the UAAP Season 81 standings after defeating rivals DLSU Green Archers, 71-55, Saturday, at the Mall of Asia Arena.

The Blue Eagles continued to storm in the third quarter, making 22 points against La Salle's 12. The Katipunan-based squad ended first half at 28-21, after making 16 against DLSU's eight points.

Ateneo will play the FEU Tamaraws on Wednesday, while La Salle will face the undefeated Adamson Soaring Falcons next Saturday to cap the first round of eliminations.

The blue and white team went back on the hard court after a week-long break with a 4-1 record, and succeeded in holding on to its solo second spot in the standings.

Pre-game thoughts

Prior to the game, Ateneo assistant coach Sandy Arespacochaga said they will treat it just like any other game. "The important thing coming into the game is we've got to be ready, we've got to prepare well, just like any other game," Arespacochaga had said.

Arespachochaga said since the game also showcases one of collegiate sports' biggest rivalries, they needed to manage emotions as well. "We cannot pretend that this is just any other game. We've also got to manage our emotions, not too high, not too low, because for sure, our opponents will also come out aggressive," he added.

Ateneo rookie SJ Belangel earlier said he was excited playing for the first time in an Ateneo-La Salle game in the seniors' league as this is a fulfilment of one of his dreams.

"It's a dream of mine back then sa Bacolod to play in an Ateneo-La Salle game. I've been watching all the games, [including] Ateneo-La Salle. I'm excited."

DLSU Rookie head coach Louie Gonzalez earlier said they will treat the game just like any other elimination match, despite Ateneo winning games in big margins.

"Going up against Ateneo, especially papasok kami, nakita ko 'yung margins nila during the last three games. I know since the start of the season na they are the team to beat. Sa amin, basta, pareho lang," La Salle's new head tactician said.

Playing against Ateneo as head coach is not really new for DLSU's new head coach. Gonzalez had already experienced calling the shots for La Salle when he filled in for former head coach Aldin Ayo, who was serving a one game-suspension back then.

"Isipin mo Ateneo, may pressure. Kahit na isipin mo na ibang school 'yun, may pressure pa rin eh. With the way with the standings are right now, you know you need to perform. Pero special 'yun eh, if it's Ateneo-La Salle," Gonzalez added.

With Saturday's defeat, the Taft-based squad now has three wins and three losses. — MDM, GMA News