Centro Escolar University exacted sweet revenge over Philippine Christian University-Dasmarinas, 62-53, boosting its bid for a twice-to-beat advantage in the quarterfinals of the Universities and Colleges Athletic League-PG Flex Linoleum Season 6, on Thursday at the Paco Arena in San Juan.
The Scorpions and the Dolphins battled toe-to-toe in the first three quarters before the defending champions limited the Cavite-based squad to just five points in the payoff period to finally tear the game wide apart and avenge their 62-59 defeat in the first round.
With the win, CEU improved to 7-2 while handing the league-leading squad its second defeat in 10 games – thanks to Dave Bernabe and Abdul-Wahab Olusesi, who finished with double-doubles.
Bernabe topscored for the Scorpions with 16 points, spiked by two triples, and posted 12 rebounds and 5 assists, while Olusesi had 19 boards and 14 points.
The top two finishers in their group will secure twice-to-beat advantages in the knockout quarterfinals.
Still in contention for the bonus is Olivarez College with a 6-3 mark.
In Saturday’s game, Manila Central University dominated the middle quarters and surprised two-time champion Diliman College, 58-48, for its 5th win in 10 games, tying its victim for 5th to 6th places.
Seanne Devon General starred anew for the Supremos with 16 points and 11 boards, while the usually reliable Robbi Darang was a disappointment for Diliman after being held to just 8 points on 2-of-17 shooting from the field.
Meanwhile, the league will have its first out-of-town game on Monday, with University of Batangas hosting a double-header, including its game against the defending champions at the Carmelo Q. Quizon gym.
The Lyceum of the Philippines University Pirates, another local squad, will go up against the MCU Supremos at 12 noon, with both teams eyeing better positions in the quarters.
