By Nikole Javier
Shane Menina made two pressure-packed charities with only 11 ticks left and Arellano University outlasted host Emilio Aguinaldo College, 63-58 in the opening of the National Collegiate Athletic Association Season 98 at Araneta Smart Coliseum on Saturday, Sept. 10.
Playing at the Big Dome for the first time of his collegiate career, the 6-foot-1 Menina did not disappoint as he tallied 15 points – seven in the final frame – in leading the Chiefs to a come-from-behind win.
Showing steely resolve, Menina defied the taunts the from the host school to knock in two important free throws that gave them a 61-58 breather.
Head coach Cholo Martin was impressed that his team was able to carry out their game strategy against the Generals.
“From first up to the third quarter, nagro-rotate sila. But fourth quarter, kinontrol na namin ‘yong tao. Kung sino ‘yong kailangan namin sa team sa fourth quarter, ‘yon ang ginagamit namin. So we were able to adjust. Lahat ng offensive opportunities after a rebound or a missed shot. We have to run,” said Martin.
Menina, who also recorded five rebounds, one assist, and one steal, was delighted by the trust given to him.
“Nilaro namin ‘yong best namin, lahat (through) collective efforts. Masarap sa feeling. Kasi lahat naman pina-practice namin (sa team). Akala ko hindi na ako makakalaro dito eh. Binigyan ako ng chance ni coach Cholo na makapasok sa team. So ‘yon, masaya ako,” said Menina.
Menina is looking to make the most of his time with the Chiefs after the team’s disappointing sixth place finish in the previous season.
The scores:
AU 62 — Menina 15, Doromal 13, Tolentino 10, Flores 9, Mantua 5, Oftana 3, Mallari 2, Abastillas 2, Tapampas 2, Oliva 2, Sunga 0
EAC 58 — Liwag 12, Cosejo 10, Maguilano 9, Gurtiza 8, Umpad 8, Luciano 4, Tolentino 4, Robin 3, Bajon 0, Balowa 0, Ad. Dorja 0, An. Dorja 0
Quarters: 17-14, 33-35, 46-47, 63-58
