Romeo, Garcia take charge as Tams ram Warriors

MANILA, Philippines – Terrence Romeo and RR Garcia, arguably the best backcourt duo in the league, led FEU to its first win in the 76th season of the UAAP, clobbering UE, 89-78, at the Mall of Asia Arena Saturday.

Garcia and Romeo combined for 17 points in the payoff period and were key in keeping the Red Warriors at bay with timely baskets to secure the victory for the Tamaraws.

"I'm happy and satisfied with the win. The whole team worked hard. We were struggling in the first half, and I just told them to be patient and I'm happy they trusted me," said new FEU coach Nash Racela.

"We can never be satisfied with our game. It’s just one game. Baka pag na-satisfy kami hindi na kami mag-i-improve," he added.

UE cut its deficit to 58-67 with 8:56 remaining in the fourth after a Ralf Olivarez basket, but the FEU backcourt answered every run. The Tamaraws unloaded 11 straight points, capped by Garcia's back-to-back triples to extend their lead to 80-66 with 3:58 left.

Romeo had a near triple-double with 23 points, 9 rebounds and 12 assists while Garcia chipped in 18 markers coming off the bench.

"Pinakinggan ko lang si coach at sinundan ang sistema namin. In-involve ko muna teammates ko at yun, lumuwag ang depensa sa akin," said Romeo.

With UE’s Charles Mammie committing his fourth foul at the midway point of the third period, FEU took advantage and unleashed a 13-4 run and headed into the final quarter with a 61-54 upperhand.

Roi Sumang and Olivarez scored 11 markers apiece in the first half to give UE a 37-32 advantage at the break.