Sunday, September 28, 2008

First rule of defense: always watch your rear.


The JRU Heavy Bombers pulled if off for a sudden death match after winning game 2 of the 84th NCAA Men's Senior Division finals against the 2-time champ San Beda Red Lions last Friday, 62-60.

Should we call it a fair game? This is not for my being a Red Lions fanatic. I do acknowledge there have been too many mistakes and wrong decisions on their end (a lot would blame it on poor Pong Escobal). Not to mention, the Heavy Bombers gave a really good defense and outstanding offense. But, it's very evident how the referees took charge in the game 2 of NCAA season 84 finals by being inconsistent with their calls (which placed Sam Ekwe and Jay-R Taganas out of the court in the crucial 4th qtr) . The JRU Heavy Bombers tried to give a good defense but it turned out too physical. And this is really what happened. If truth will only be told.

Too physical I said because NJei of JRU was too clingy and so were most of the Bombers but too many instances of fouls were not called in favor of the Lions. While a number of lame fouls were called in favor of JRU since the start of the game. Yeah, it's JRU's strategy and well, it's part of the game. So, I can only ask, should this be considered a clean win for the Bombers? Or rather a win out of frustration to stretch their season?

No doubt, they are good. I am not questioning it. They have exceptional defense and consistent key players like Cagoco, Sena, Nocom (MVP in this game), Bulangis and Wilson. They're truly commendable. Nonetheless, their win was aided by court authorities. Yes, they'd successfully shut down the offense and held down most of the Lions' scorers. They're pesky and aggressive and not to mention, too touchy. They're all over the Red Lions' bodies, for crying out loud! So, although, Escobal made palpable errors, come on! Who can survive a game like this when it appeared more like a boxing bout for him?!

A defense play such as the Heavy Bombers' can really test an opponents' composure and focus NOT because of their knack, but because they are able to get away with their strong nudges. No fouls will be called no matter how battered the opponent already is. In addition, how lucky fouls are called in their favor with just the slightest touch from the Lions. The foul call which put Ekwe on the bench was too lame. His hands were raised and he was still. Can't blame Frankie Lim for that pointless technical, although, he fired it a lil too late. It should've came earlier in the game before the Lions became psychologically affected.

In my opinion, it's not a question of their (the Lions) composure or maturity. That's too much to ask. There's nothing tougher than frustration caused by an outer force. Truth is, it's not the defense of the Bombers that destroyed their focus. It's the thought that winning is not on their hands but on the hands of another who has the power to manipulate who SHOULD win.


Quarterscores: 19-14; 30-28; 45-44; 62-60.

Jose Rizal (62) -- Nocom 16, Wilson 13, Sena 11, Bulangis 7, Cagoco 4, Hayes 4, Njei 4, Pradas 3, Lopez 0, Kabigting 0.

San Beda (60) -- Escobal 16, Ekwe 15, Menor 9, Taganas 5, Hermida 4, Marcelo 4, Tirona 3, Gamalinda 2, Pascual 2.




Friday, September 26, 2008

As we let our own lights shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same.


Today is the 2nd day of the NCAA season 84 championship match between San Beda and JRU and for sure, just like me, everyone is already too excited to know whether the Lions will bag the trophy this same day OR will the Bombers push for another game?

In last Wednesdays' game, the Red Lions escaped with a 4-pt. lead victory over the Heavy Bombers, 72-68. Twas a tight match given by the Bombers that the Red Lions had to struggle to keep the lead. Credit should be given to James Sena (who also contributed to the team's defeat after missing crucial freethrow shots in the last minutes of the 4th qtr), Marvin Hayes, Marc Cagoco and John Wilson.

Am too lazy to state the details... but, last game was a good one. A very good match. JRU truly deserves to fight for the title. But, the Red Lions are too thirsty for another victory. I am keeping my fingers crossed that they win and end the series this day.







Saturday, September 20, 2008

You're either in or you're out.


In one of my posts, I shared how eager I was in losing pounds. Even shared a list of what I planned to do. But, yeah, just like most New Year's resolutions, it's nothing but 'plan'. Now, my list rather looks like this:

* NO carbs for 2 weeks.
* NO meals after 4PM.
* NO eat-out for until desired weight is gained.
* START hula hoop(ing) again.
* START skip rope again.
* INCREASE hours working with my new bud, "Orbitrac".
* INCREASE fluid intake.
* INCREASE green tea intake.
* INCLUDE vegetables in my diet.

*BIG SIGH* Oh, how tough it is to stay away from FOOD. Especially, I've been cooking a lot lately. Yeah, I do cook...believe it or not. *wink* Plus, there's a big number of people I know who are celebrating their birthdays this month: Richmond, BubbleBum, Keith & Mommy Ona (5th), Uncle Olan (10th), Zeke (11th), Lolo Richard (12th) [ belated happy BiDy!!! ] Pauline (24th), Nanai (25th), JR (26th), Mamai (27th) & Boogie (29th)... lotsmo but these are the only people I can remember... HAPPY BiDy, all Sep Celebrants!!!


~~~~~~~~~~


...now, back to NCAA series...

Guess what? The San Beda Red Lions advances to the finals and will be facing the JRU Heavy Bombers on Wednesday (24th) at the Araneta Coliseum after yesterdays do-or-die game against the Mapua Cardinals. Final score 60-53.

Twas a roller coaster game for the Lions. Leading in the 1st qtr (22-16); then, took a-fall-header-plunge-spill-tumble with only 6pts against the Cardinals' 17 -- combined scores of Kevin dela Pena, Allan Mangahas and Mazo (28-33); picking up again in the 3rd qtr and successfully snatched the lead back with the help of Gamalinda and Menor's behind attacks (44-41) ... maintained the lead the entire 4th qtr leading them back to the finals. Hooray!

Rogemar (Ogie) Menor truly showed his worth in this game and was named MVP. Am so impressed by his confidence, guts and expertise dealing with rattling sitches. How he can create scores for himself! He's the man! Check his stats.

Although, only Borgie Hermida (aka Mighty Kid) was able to manage a 3pt shot and there's very poor outside shooting from the team, the Lions were able to pull it off with significant efforts from Ogie Menor, rookie Jake Pascual (transferee from the PCU Jrs team shared 13 pts, 13 rbds, 3 assists, 3 stls & 2 blks), David Marcelo (3rbds & 1 assist) and Hermida (14 pts, 5 rbds & 3 assists). Hafta also give credit to the rest'o the Lions... Sam Ekwe (9pts, 13 rbds & 2 blks), Pong Escobal (5pts) and Riego Gamalinda (2pts...also helped spark a running game for the team).

Ogie Menor, the game's MVP, made 17pts, 4rbds and 1 ast.



2008 Standings


Wins Losses
SBC Red Lions 12 3
SSCR Stags 9 5
JRU Bombers 9 5
LC Knights 9 5
MIT Cardinals 9 6
CSB Blazers 4 10
PCU Dolphins 3 11
UPHR Altas 2 12


Looking forward to Wednesday's Finals game.




Do you ever feel that you're observing the world you live in instead of participating in it?


I was totally devastated after the Mapua Cardinals (4th seed) defeated the San Beda Red Lions (1st seed) yesterday during NCAA's Semis. This is the 2ndth time the Cardinals aced the Red Lions this season being the only team to beat the latter twice. Sad to admit, but the entire game was in favor of the Cardinals.

Was only able to watch the 2nd half (again). That time, Mapua was already leading by 11. Twas another low scoring game ended with only 53-51.

Am still so dismayed that they had to lose this one. Thought twas leading to an extension but they insisted on taking that 3pts shot in an attempt to snatch the victory (in stead of eyeing for an extension) which they failed to do.

At around 12secs in the 4th qtr, the lead was down to 3 (from the combined score of Hermida and Menor). Menor got the chance to add more points by means of freethrow. He got the first one but missed the second hoping to get the rebound, which unfortunately, didn't help as Escobal was too early on the paint. Possession was given to the Cardinals with only 7secs left, but the Lions were able to steal the ball giving them the advantage to either go for 3 or challenge the Cardinals for another 5mins. The latter was executed. Inbound by Menor (which was very questionable..."why him?") and two 3pt attempts by Escobal, which was too strong the first time and too short the 2ndth (in an attempt to get a foul). Ekwe was under the basket but was too late to erase the two points deficit as clock went zero. *sigh*

Like Hermida and the rest of the Lions, I was in shock for a few secs while watching the Cardinals rejoice. Nobody expected this. Even in the last seconds, I was hopeful they (RLs) can still pull it off. Turned out negative for the last season's champ, though.

My personal opinion... (come on! everyone's entitled to this. givvituhme!)

...aside from Ekwe's poor contribution lately, I noticed something wrong with the coaching, as well. Yes, yes, I am not a coach and what do I know?! But, for crying out loud, to put Rogemar Menor out of the court in a crucial game like this?! Tell me, is there nothing wrong?! May I mention that he was vital to their past years' wins; he was NCAA Season 83 Finals MVP; he was twice awarded as outstanding player of the week by the NCAA Press Corps last year; he can remarkably make 35pts in a single game (avg 14 ppg -- obsolete -- no current record available); he was MVP in the Jr Div twice (2003 & 2004) and so on... oh, and I almost forgot he was the highest scorer among the Lions in yesterday's game although he was stuck longer on the bench. May I question, as well, why he had to do the inbound during that crucial 7secs ball possession?

...I sound so like a fan of his, but, I believe in his talent so...

Anyway, I also question why they had to push for 3 pts? Extension could've been more practicable, especially, considering their very bad outside shooting in this game. Inside shooting was even such a struggle, so, WHY???

Sam Ekwe was kept playing in spite of the many errors he's making...he was allowed to make too many attempts and ended up with only 4. Goodness! Like, while watching the disaster, I was asking, "what's happening?!!!" My tummy felt like revolting ...I wanted to throw up. If I wanted them to win badly, how much more the players themselves?! But, Ekwe was just screwing up. He's not even helping with the rebounds.

Dunno what's happening, but I just miss how Ekwe used to contribute a lot to the team. He used to not care whether he made points or not. Just as long as he can do something like snatch the ball, box out or whatever. Lately, he has become lax. To me, it looks like he's too engrossed making jumpshot attempts no matter how many times he misses. Makes me wonder why isn't anything being done about this? Was this even an instruction from the coaching staff? He's supposed to be within the paint (boxing out) but he's been positioning himself outside where he's not really needed. *scratches head*

Their last game (when Ekwe made only 4 points and played his shortest game time) rose suspicions that he might be involved in game-fixing. There have been rumors spreading he was picked up for interrogation after a very bad performance, but this was denied by Frankie Lim (head coach) and the officials of his college (source). They even expressed their full trust in the Nigerian National (read more...). Can't remember who said this (could be the commentators as just like myself, they're also wondering why won't they [coaching staff] make him rest since he's not anymore effective...) , "they're trying to make Ekwe satisfied or happy" (not the exact wording), so he was let to play longer although he's erratic. Is this in relation to the controversy? Read more here...

*deep sigh* Well, it's really a combination of errors and unlucky day, in fact, that might have dictated the Red Lions fate yesterday. Almost half of their free throws were missed (10/18). Too many missed shots could've also saved them.

oh, well...No matter how I rant here, the result is all over the news and I should better just wait for the next game (September 22, Mon 2:30PM at the Astrodome).









Thursday, September 11, 2008

Trust me folks, this is gonna be a day you'll never forget.


Yey! After another exhilarating game yesterday, the San Beda Red Lions once again copped the victory this time against the Colegio de San Juan de Letran Knights. Twas a low-scoring game ended with 65-63 (OT). *whew*

At the last few seconds of the fourth quarter, the Knights were in the lead by two when Jazul fouled Menor and the latter swept the deficit, which led them to an extension. (Am not really certain if this was what really caused the OT and if these were really the men involved. Boy, everything happened too swiftly! But the intensity of the game is still felt up to this moment. Just correct me if there's any mistake in my story. OR better yet, add to it.)

Have no idea how things went during the first half. I was actually busy working on something so I was trying to dismiss the idea of postponing what I was doing ONLY to watch this game. I did leave my work and sat comfortably in front of Changhong ...and well, it's all worth it.

Around less than 7 minutes during the 3rd quarter, Letran was ahead by 13(?). Who would think the Lions could still win?! Menor and Escobal were NOT performing as expected and so is almost everybody. Too many free throws were given away, which could've aided them in this close fight game. Ekwe's game was just as bad. In fact, his most unfavorable for this season with only 4 pts and 3 rbds in 19 mins (his lowest game time).

SBC RL bench Tirona, Marcelo, Pascual (who was fouled out in the 4th qtr) and Gamalinda responded to the need and how this helped their struggle to advance. Later in the game, Menor and Hermida came back adding more thrill to the already exciting match.

Am sure everyone watching the game yesterday (both live and TV audience) was already anticipating a 2nd extension but NO... nah-uh! That's already enough. Everybody's tired. It's been a really tiring game for both teams so, Hermida had to make that last (chance) shot to cancel another OT. His last second shot, which ended the game and brought defeat to the Knights. awwww... (frown for The Ks but big happy smile for the RLs)

There's a weightier reason for the Knights to grieve. It is the possibility to get eliminated should they lose the next two knock-out games. The RLs gave them and 3 other teams (San Sebastian, Mapua and JRU) tougher work vying for the 3 remaining slots to complete the Final Four. While SBC RLs hold a twice to beat advantage. *big smile*

Have a sporty day!








Sunday, September 7, 2008

With some intensive work, she'll be ready for the world's finest trailer park.


Started the day playing baskets. Just maybe some 30 minutes for a start. Am a bit disappointed that I lost my shooting skills a bit. Promised myself to gain it back. Dunno if it's just the height of the ring or the rotting board. Was I just distracted? Surely, I will gain the arm strength back in no time. That is, if I regularly play.

I better continue this routine. Also planning to swim some lapse everyday. Or at least thrice a week. These are just plans but I hope to do them. Am telling you how serious I am with my weight loss plan. Didn't eat large volume for breakfast. And I didn't eat rice as well. Will deprive myself of carbs esp rice. Think it's the culprit. Goodness...I really hope to keep up with this diet plan. *whew*

...next move...I will dispatch all finger snacks and won't buy anymore. *crossed fingers*
*sigh* This is seriously such a sacrifice. You can all call me a hero if I can carry on.

Later, will buy a new hula. The one I currently have is already oblong. haha

Tomorrow, will work on my IDs. Dunno but I am guessing many of you have an idea how hard it is to get government IDs these days. Or has it been the case ever since?

...like, to get an SSS ID, you have to stand in long line of people...when some satellites don't have aircondition system. Then, you'd have to wait like 3 months to 6 months to receive it! Wake up call for those who should be concerned. People are getting IDs because they need it. If they don't why do you think they will rush to your branches and experience all the hassles? Then, you're gonna have them wait like MONTHS to receive the ID!!! Hello!?

We went to Megamall last Thursday to get an NBI clearance (for identification...the fastest I thought I can get).. Whoa. We reached the mall around 10AM and goodness!!! The end of the line was on the 4th floor. In fairness, it didn't take very long as expected. Maybe, some 25-45 minutes. Good job, NBIc Team.

Irritating how I looked like in the photo, though. Too close! Imagine how you'd look like in a too close up shot. Yes, that's the same way I looked. Grrr. Well, at least I got the clearance (consolation). I got my new Eon, as well. Danke.

I already blabbed a lot. Need to finish what needs to and prepare for fellowship. Happy Sunday, everyone!







Saturday, September 6, 2008

Ham sandwich on stale rye bread. Lots of mayo, easy on the ham.


Today, I had a shocking revelation about my current vital measurement. And this is a serious concern (for me). It's not anymore just my imagination like what my friends would say. My size is not anymore desirable and it needs immediate action. How, I am sooo disgusted with myself! *sobs*

I rather not share figures now. It's totally embarrassing. Believe me. But, from this day forward, I will do all possible things to gain back the weight that's just right for me.

Am wondering, though, why I still gained weight. Have started increasing my activities and I eat only small portions each meal. Just imagine how much more I should decrease from my intake if this is the case! Goodness! *glaring eyes*

Here's my plan:

- NO carbs for 2 weeks.
- NO meals after 4PM.
- NO eat-out for until desired weight is gained.
- START hula hoop(ing) again.
- START skip rope again.
- INCREASE hours working with my new bud, "Orbitrac".
- INCREASE fluid intake.
- INCREASE green tea intake.
- INCLUDE vegetables in my diet.

*sigh* No eat-out for a while is such a tough thing to do. It's like everyone's happy and enjoying gorging some delectable food... while, I... just in one corner staring at them! But, I have to do this OR else.

Yeah, I am NOT fat. But, I hafta look after my weight this early or I will regret my negligence later. This needs lotsa discipline. Good luck to me.

...no more of these...*frowns*


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Yes. You all hafta see why I feel so devastated right now. See what I will have to miss? What sacrifice I have to take?!! This is just so unfair. *sobs* ... *wipes tears* but lil sacrifices will help me feel good about myself again. Attitude is the word.

On a different note... X has been sending me mobile messages and one time asked if I can receive his call but I refused. Made me wonder why all of a sudden he's coming back. Hippo saw him just yesterday with fMV and they looked like there's nothing wrong anyway. hmmm Nothing like this is a big issue. Just as far as am concerned, fMV doesn't like X having anything to do with me for whatever reason. Hello?! Doesn't she know that I, in fact, has the sole right to be angry at her?! Whatever.

It all came back to me how I was eaten completely by insecurity after HE told me she is a Kristine Hermosa look-a-like! Then, after a couple'a years, I found her photos in his FS and what d'ya know?! She is really a celebrity-look-a-like. ONLY she doesn't look like KH, but a female Michael V.! Boo!

To end this post... The Red Lions retained their team standing after last Wednesday's breath taking game with San Sebastian College Recoletos (62-58). They will face Letran College this coming Wednesday to complete the elimination rounds at the Araneta Stadium.

G'night y'all.


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✎✐✎✐✎✐✎✐✎✐✎✐✎✐✎✐✎✐✎✐✎✐✎✐✎✐✎✐✎✐✎✐✎✐✎✐✎✐

A Love with a promise of permanence.

"...if any hear MY voice and open the door,  I will come into their house and eat with them,  and they will eat with ME." ...

✎✐✎✐✎✐✎✐✎✐✎✐✎✐✎✐✎✐✎✐✎✐✎✐✎✐✎✐✎✐✎✐✎✐✎✐✎✐