The DLSU Green Archers failed to return to the finals, suffering their first loss after falling short against the UP Fighting Maroons, 83-78, in the 18th FilOil EcoOil Preseason Cup Semifinals earlier tonight, July 13, at the FilOil EcoOil Centre. Abadiano broke the silence, giving the UP Fighting Maroons an early three-point lead. The Fighting Maroons, still under pressure from the Green Archers’ strong defense and back-to-back baskets, went scoreless for three minutes until Terrence Fortea ended the scoring drought with a quick jumper. Hot then coldThe Green Archers appeared poised from their sharp 50-percent shooting in the first half, forcing the Fighting Maroons to recalibrate with their improved defense. The white shirts, led by Remogat, found their touch, trimming the deficit to just four as the Fighting Maroons tightened their grip, 48-44.