BY MILES ARCENAL
AFTER five straight wins which pulled Letran out of a 0-3 hole, head coach Allen Ricardo admitted that Wednesday’s 82-81 loss to San Sebastian was a much-needed reality check.
“It was a lesson learned that you don’t underestimate sino yung nasa bottom seed,” Ricardo told the SPIN.ph.
“It’s about waking up, we have to start with the right attitude and right body language.”
READ: Jhuniel Dela Rama hits winner to lift San Sebastian past Letran
For much of the game, it looked like the Knights were headed for an upset loss as the Stags controlled the tempo early. The Intramuros squad only found its rhythm late, mounting a furious rally that nearly stole the game, only to fall short in the final seconds.
Ricardo didn’t sugarcoat when describing the team’s sluggish start.
“During the first half, struggle talaga. Hindi kami naglaro ng tama, hindi kami naglaro ng maganda on both ends,” he said.
“Kung una pa lang, pinukpok na nila, hindi na tayo aabot sa ganitong sitwasyon.”
Still, the Letran mentor chose to take the loss in stride, emphasizing the value of humility after a stretch of success.
“Of course, we have to stay humble and disciplined. Do the small things, everything, just to win every game,” he added.
“The most important thing is pa-paano mo sila iaangat. You win some, you lose some.”
With the Knights now returning to their own bracket and facing crucial games ahead, Ricardo said the defeat should serve as motivation.
“It’s a must-win moving forward,” he said.
“Especially with JRU and St. Benilde picking up wins, we have to strive hard to stay in that top 2 spot.”
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