FEU attempts to step closer to top seed

By Josiah Albelda Posted Sep 11th 2013

With even its chances for a twice-to-beat slot in peril, Far Eastern University would want to make sure it works on the things it has control over.

The Tamaraws close their elimination round campaign versus winless University of the Philippines in the 76th UAAP men's basketball tournament Wednesday at 2 p.m. at the Mall of Asia Arena.

The Morayta-based crew will be heavily favored against the Fighting Maroons, who are now deep in a 19-game losing streak dating back to August 2012 and have seen nothing improve under new coach Rey Madrid.

FEU currently sits in a tie for first with a 9-4 record, but a loss -- coupled by a La Salle win on Saturday -- will see the Tamaraws fall to a battle for a twice-to-beat slot against the Green Archers.

Terrence Romeo exploded for a career-high 32 points over the weekend and FEU will need him to dominate anew to ensure the Tamaraws' high seeding in the Final Four and for him to put up a last-ditch boost in his MVP bid.

RR Garcia is also hoped to have recovered from the string of lethargic games he's had in the second round while athletic Anthony Hargrove will return to action after a one-game suspension.

Meanwhile, UP will lean on Sam Marata and double-double machine Raul Soyud to deliver the goods and finally break the long, long spell the team has been in.

The game will air live on Studio 23, BALLS HD 167 and uaapsports.tv with a same day replay starting at 9 p.m. on BALLS SkyCable channel 34 or Destiny Cable channel 36.