Gretch Go and Eldridge Liao delivered in the clutch as Xavier School stunned defending champion Grace Christian College, 56-53, for its second straight win in the 45-and-above division of the Fil-Chinese Athletic Association Inc. (FCAAI) on Monday, Aug. 31, at the Tanduay Gym in Quiapo, Manila.
After Go put the A Prime Corp-AcroCity-backed Golden Stallions back on top with a gutsy layup, Liao showed nerves of steel by sinking two pressure-packed free throws in the final 10 seconds to spoil GCC’s debut in the 14-school tournament.
The victory allowed Xavier to join Uno High School at the top of Group A, a seven-team bracket, with identical 2-0 records. The Uneans, backed by CW Home Depot and 1118 AutoSpa, also improved to 2-0 after defeating Megacon-Hygon Motors-backed Philippine Cultural College, 75-71.
St. Peter The Apostle-MetroAsia also turned in an impressive performance, routing Mr. Big-Philippine Chen Kuang HS, 78-55.
Liao and Michael Chua led Xavier with 14 points apiece, while Danny Balanzat contributed 10 points, four rebounds, and a steal. Go and Joseph Ngo added six points each.
GCC, sponsored by Mintex and Fullercon, was led by Albert Edsel Chua and Allan Anson Tan, who scored 20 and 12 points, respectively.
St. Stephen’s and Chiang Kai Shek College currently lead Group B after winning their first two games in the tournament, which is backed by Smart Sports, Tanduay Athletics, Genius Hardware, Ultraforce Tires, Cellboy, PGFlex Linoleum, Boysen, Lamtex Pipes, Jiang Nan, Hangry Pares, Powerhouse Tools, L.F. Fireworks, BYD Valenzuela, BAIC, Jetour, Yong Kee Roasting House, 1118 Autospa, and TCL.
The tournament began last month, but several games were rescheduled due to inclement weather.
The FCAAI previously held the 35-39 and 50-and-above divisions, with Hope Christian High School capturing both titles.
Backed by former PBA MVP James Yap and ex-UAAP MVP Ken Bono, Iloilo’s Hua Siong College successfully defended its 40-and-above crown after defeating Xavier School.
