SOUTHWESTERN Western University starting guard Mark Tallo admitted the Cobras became overconfident in their 54-64 loss to La Salle Green Archers in Game One of the Philippine Collegiate Champions League Monday.
The Cobras went down by as much as 22 points early in the fourth period, 37-59, but came alive later to cut down the deficit to 52-61, only to come up short in the endgame.
“Maganda 'yung laban kanina. Siguro overconfident lang kami kasi we won the last time,” said Tallo, a former Green Archer.
Tallo had an impressive showing in the Cobras’ 86-71 semifinal win over Far Eastern University, scoring 16 markers to go with eight rebounds and seven assists.
Now they need to win Game Two on Tuesday to extend the series to a title decider.
“Kailangan pa namin mag-hard work pa sa defensive plays namin,” he said.
Tallo, however, will have to overcome the pressure he has on his shoulders as he goes up against his one-time teammates.
His coach Yayoy Alcoseba gave him words of encouragement ahead of their 4 p.m. game.
“May konting pressure pero sabi lang ni coach just have fun, just play your game, wag ka ma-intimidate sa kanila kasi alam nila `yung game mo. 'Yung ginagawa mo sa FEU gawin mo lang ulit,” Tallo said, recalling the words of his coach.
“On my part, I have to improve my decision making, tsaka instinct na lang more on mind games.”
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