Arellano University head coach Cholo Martin was glad that his side escaped a physical game against University of Perpetual Help System DALTA to return to the win column of NCAA Season 98 on Friday.
The Chiefs banked on their hustle plays and endgame composure on the way to a tight 61-59 victory. Perpetual looked like it could bag the win late but the backcourt duo Axel Doromal and Shane Menina showed the way in the dying seconds.
Martin was also happy that his big men, led by transferee Cade Flores, were able to hold their own in a highly-intense encounter with Perpetual.
"We're expecting him... Gano'n siya kasipag eh, especially sa rebound. Mabait na player, laro lang nang laro kahit nasasaktan," said Martin of Flores, who grabbed 16 rebounds in the game.
"Okay naman siya. I've been telling them na gano'n maglalaro ang Perpetual, physical 'yan eh."
Martin also beamed with pride at the fact that his players were able to respond to his challenge to match the intensity of the Altas, who were coming off a morale-boosting win over Jose Rizal university just last Sunday.
"I've been telling them.. kasi na-review naman namin 'yung play ng Perpetual so alam nila kung saan pupunta at adjustment," the mentor added.
"Gawin namin 'yung ginagawa sa amin, 'yung pressure defense then once they missed, we have to run. Luckily, we were able to overcome the lead."
—JMB, GMA News