Cardinals continue chase

MANILA, Philippines — Marc Cuenco delivered when his team needed it most as Mapua outlasted Perpetual Help, 65-60, in overtime yesterday to continue to make chase of the Group A leaders in NCAA Season 102 at the Filoil Center.

Cuenco ended up leading all scorers with 17 points, including some crucial shots late in regulation and in OT to help lift the Cardinals to joint third with the San Beda Lions on 5-3 records.

They’re now just a game and a half behind joint No. 1 Jose Rizal U and St. Benilde, who both possess 6-1 cards.

Cuenco was just happy to get through the rigors of this grueling duel and final examination week back in school.

“Time management lang siguro kaya nagpapasalamat ako sa teachers for their consideration at sa guidance ng coaches,” said Cuenco.

Mapua mentor Chito Victolero commended his wards for grinding it out.

“It was all about toughness,” he said.

The Altas dropped to 2-6.

Lyceum, which lost coach Jamike Jarin to ejection and starter Genesis Aviles to injury, relied on Renz Villegas’ late basket as it overcame San Sebastian, 78-77, to improve to 3-5.

The Stags remained winless in eight outings.