By: Miguel Caramoan
University of Perpetual Help seized an early advantage in the NCAA Season 101 Seniors Basketball Tournament, moving into a share of the top spot in Group A after dominating Lyceum of the Philippines, 73-61, Sunday at the Filoil EcoOil Centre.
The Altas are now tied with the unbeaten Mapua Cardinals, who preserved their perfect slate with a 90–87 victory over Arellano University last Saturday.
Both teams put their unblemished records on the line when they clash on Wednesday at the same venue.
Lyceum initially held a slim 21-20 lead after the opening quarter, but a strong 25-14 second quarter swung the momentum toward Perpetual.
Mark Gojo Cruz powered the run with 12 points in the period, allowing the Altas to enter halftime ahead, 46-34.
The Altas stretched the margin to as much as 18 points, 67-49, with 4:36 left in the final frame.
But the Pirates mounted a fierce comeback, uncorking a 12-0 run to cut the deficit to just six, 67-61, with 1:06 remaining.
Jonathan Daileg fueled the rally, firing all nine of his points during that stretch.
“Oo nga, we were able to control the game in the first 36 minutes. Pero alam namin na babalik yung Lyceum eh. We just have to do a better job of finishing games. Hindi pwede na ganon na naging complacent kami,” Racela said, reflecting on how the Altas handled the Pirates’ late surge.
Fortunately for Perpetual, late baskets from John Abis and Patrick Sleat sealed the victory.
“Again, this is a young team, so we have a lot to learn. So maganda na nadaanan namin yung ganyan, so that we know what to do next time,” Racela added.
Gojo Cruz led the Altas with an all-around effort of 18 points, four rebounds, four assists, and three steals.
Jearico Nunez chipped in a double-double of 13 points and 10 rebounds.
Meanwhile, Renz Villegas continued to be a bright spot for Lyceum, finishing with 18 points and three assists on an efficient 70% shooting clip.
The Pirates will aim for their first win against San Sebastian on Friday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.
The Scores:
Perpetual Help 73 – Gojo Cruz 18, Nuñez 13, Orgo 9, Sleat 9, Boral 8, Abis 6, Maglupay 4, Tulabut 4, Gelsano 2, Alcanatara 0, Casinilio 0, Duremdes 0, Roluna 0
Lyceum 61 – Villegas 18, Montaño 11, Daileg 9, Peñafiel 8, Versoza 6, Aurige 4, Gordon 3, Moralejo 2, Barba 0, Aviles 0, Pallingayan 0, Matienzo 0, Casiño 0, Paulo 0
Quarterscores: 21-2, 46-34, 59-43, 73-61
