The Heavy Bombers went nine-of-10 from the foul line in the last four minutes to defuse the Cardinals’ late surge as they sealed their second triumph following an opening day 55-54 victory over San Sebastian College.
JRU established a 38-21 lead at the break but faltered at the start of the final canto when Steve Marucot exploded with nine of Mapua’s 15 points to move within four, 55-51.
A basket by Marco Fajardo in the ensuing play proved to be the Bombers’ last field goal as they piled up points in the penalty area the rest of the way to seal the win and deal the Cardinals their second loss in a row.
The 6-foot-4 Marucot shone anew for the Cardinals with 24 points, the bulk coming in the blue paint when JRU’s frontline failed to box him out, but he got little scoring support as no teammates made more than six points.
But JRU coach Boy de Vera is not satisfied. "Nag-relax na naman kami sa fourth quarter kaya muntik na naman kaming matalo."
Earlier, the Red Robins, the reigning champions, cut the Light Bombers to pieces for a masterful 86-54 win for their second straight triumph.
Vastly-improved Paul Gonzalgo, son of former PBA cager Dante Gonzalgo, had another field day after pacing Mapua High with 19 points.