Cabrera, Adamson weather late UE assault

By Josiah Albelda Posted Jul 11th 2013

For Adamson Univeristy, The Roider Cabrera Show was just enough.

Cabrera fired 19 points in 12 first-half minutes as Adamson University built a lead big enough to weather a late assault by University of the East, 78-71, in the 76th UAAP men's basketball tournament Wednesday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

The sharpshooting forward rifled in five three-pointers in a crippling salvo that helped the Soaring Falcons turn a close game into a rout before things became exciting late in the final quarter.

"We collapsed late in the game," said coach Leo Austria. "I'm so happy that we survived."

Fresh off a heartbreaking loss to University of Santo Tomas, Adamson immediately buckled down to work in practice, studying and mastering the Red Warriors' style of play en route to the resounding win.

"We didn't take a break," Austria added. "We practiced. I told the boys to just stick to the system, challenge every shot and get every rebound."

The Falcons sure listened to their coach's instructions as the San Marcelino five gored UE on the boards once more, hauling down 52 rebounds to the Warriors' 37.

Although he missed all seven of his triple attempts in the second half, Cabrera finished with a season-high 19 points as Adamson kept abreast of league-leading Far Eastern University with a 2-1 card.

Ingrid Sewa added 15 points, 11 rebounds and two blocks while Jericho Cruz had 10 points, five boards and five assists for the Season 76 hosts.

On the other hand, Roi Sumang led a late charge by UE, but unlike in their win over National University, his heroics fell short of bringing the Warriors to victory this time.

Sumang posted 26 points -- 12 in the fourth quarter -- while Charles Mammie struggled with foul trouble anew to tally nine points, 14 boards and three blocks.