Mapua University couldn't seem to get over the winless slump it is facing in Season 98 National Collegiate Athletic Association men's basketball tournament.

Cardinals big man Warren Bonifacio admitted they are frustrated with their close defeats this season as they felt they are going back to square one.

It also doesn't help the fact that their lone win in the season, a 66-55 decision over San Beda University last 10 September, was forfeited owing to eligibility issues surrounding the recruitment of Gab Gamboa.

Initially, the league ruled Gamboa "banned for life" but the NCAA management committee said last Sunday that it has yet to release a decision.

"There were games that were really close. We were almost there and then we would lose our composure in the end. That was our strength last season," said Bonifacio, whose team lost, 64-59, to Arellano University last Sunday.

Save for the forfeited win over San Beda and a 76-67 setback to Lyceum of the Philippines University last 14 September, Mapua lost its games by five points or less.

The Cardinals entered Season 98 as the heavy favorites after challenging Letran College for the title last season and making it to the finals of the Philippine Basketball Association D-League Aspirants' Cup.

But after one wrong turn, it seems Mapua's road back to redemption is getting bleaker.

Still, Bonifacio and his teammates refused to go down without a fight as they stay upbeat despite their misfortunes.

"Our mindset is to stay positive. The season isn't over yet. We still have a chance," Bonifacio said.

"We just have to give our best effort, starting in practice, so that we can replicate it in the game."