MANILA, Philippines -- Benedict Fernandez unloaded 12 of his 16 points in the first half to set the tone for the Far Eastern University's 88-66 dumping of University of the Philippines in the 71st UAAP men's basketball competition Thursday at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig.

The Tamaraws fired a sizzling 58.1 percent from the field in the first half to coast to a 21-point advantage, 52-31, at the break.

Aldrech Ramos shot 14 markers and Marlon Adolfo added 12 for the Tamaraws, who improved to 2-1 to join the University of the East Warriors at second place.

"I'm satisfied with the performance of my big men," said FEU coach Glenn Capacio.

The Maroons absorbed their second straight lopsided loss for a 1-2 slate.

The scores:

First Game

FEU 88--Fernandez 16, Ramos 14, Adolfo 12, Baracael 9, Barroca 8, Kave 7, Cawaling 5, Alisbo 4, Cervantes 4, Knuttel 4, Tanuan 2, Sanga 2, Macazo 1, Romero 0, Cabagnot 0.

UP 66--Agbayani 12, Reyes 11, Co 8, Sison 7, Pajela 6, Sorongon 5, Fortu 4, Gamboa 3, Marfori 2, Lopez 2, De Asis 0, Hipolito 0.

Quarters: 23-14, 52-31, 67-50, 88-66