Fighting Maroons go for jugular

MANILA, Philippines — On the verge a return to the throne, the UP Fighting Maroons pursues the mission, going for the jugular versus the La Salle Archers in Game 2 of the UAAP Season 87 men’s basketball finals today at the Mall of Asia Arena.

The Maroons, who had back-to-back bridemaid finishes in four straight finals appearances, moved closer to redemption by eking out a 73-65 win in the opener of the short best-of-three series.

And that handsome opportunity to complete the mission is there for the Maroons at 5:30 p.m. right after National U’s similar bid in the women’s basketball finals against titleholder Santo Tomas at 1 p.m.

The Lady Bulldogs are on the cusp of crown following a 72-71 escape act in Game 1.

In beating the Archers Sunday, the Maroons are in the same position as they were in the last two finals.

“We got Game 1 so we’re gonna do our best in Game 2. Lahat ng makakaya namin to get it, gagawin namin. Whatever comes our way, we’re gonna face the challenge there,” said UP coach Goldwin Monteverde, determined to flip the script of Seasons 85 and 86.

The Archers, meanwhile, are now looking at a repeat of their Season 86 success.

“We just need to get back in Game 2. There’s a reason why this is a series. You don’t win a championship by winning one game, you need two games. So we still have a chance as we’ve been in this situation before,” said coach Topex Robinson.