The National University (NU) Bulldogs started their UAAP Season 87 baseball campaign with a strong performance, winning 7-4 against the Adamson University Soaring Falcons on Wednesday at the Rizal Memorial Baseball Stadium in Malate. This victory gives NU Bulldogs a great start as they aim to defend their title this season.
The game was close for most of the match, but sophomore catcher Charles Chua made the difference. With the score tied at 4-4 in the 8th inning, Chua hit a single to center field, allowing Julius Cesar Soriano to run home and break the tie. This important play gave NU the lead against Adamson's substitute pitcher John Matanguihan.
After Chua's hit, Gio Gorpido and Kent Altarejos also made great plays in the final inning to secure the win for NU.
NU head coach Romar Landicho, who is also a coach for the national men’s team, recognized Adamson's strong performance in the game.
"I also give credit to Adamson because they gave us a hard time. They really studied our hitters, so that's why we struggled a bit. The kids were able to adjust in the last inning, so we got the win," Landicho said after the game.
Gorpido was a standout player for NU Bulldogs offense, delivering three hits in four at-bats. Soriano also played well, making two hits, both of which led to RBIs (runs batted in). Their contributions showed NU's strong lineup and teamwork.
Starting pitcher Amiel de Guzman played a key role in keeping Adamson's offense under control. He allowed only four hits in seven and two-thirds innings and struck out seven batters. His solid pitching helped NU stay competitive throughout the game.
As the game reached its final moments, Gorpido took the pitcher’s mound to finish the match. He allowed just one hit in the last inning and helped keep Adamson from scoring again. His calm performance helped NU secure their first win of the season.
NU will now prepare for their next game against the University of the Philippines on March 2.
Even though they lost, Adamson University showed that they are a strong team. Lawrence Mercado led their offense with two hits in four at-bats and scored two runs.
Starting pitcher Rommel Bacalla also played well for Adamson, controlling NU’s offense through the first eight innings. He allowed seven hits, but NU’s late surge in the ninth inning proved too much to handle.
Adamson will now focus on improving as they prepare for their next game against the University of Santo Tomas.
With this opening win, NU has shown that they are determined to defend their title. Their strong performance in the first game suggests they have the talent and teamwork to go far this season.
However, Adamson also proved they are a team to watch, as they kept up with NU for most of the game.
Fans can look forward to more exciting matches in UAAP baseball, as teams fight for a chance to be champions.
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For fans who love baseball, UAAP Season 87 is shaping up to be an exciting tournament. Every game brings thrilling moments and unpredictable outcomes. If you enjoy sports betting, now is the best time to be part of the action.
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