Lions face lowly Altas, forfeiture

San Beda, facing a possible forfeiture of its game against St. Benilde, takes on lowly Perpetual Help today at resumption of action in the NCAA men’s basketball tournament at the Astrodome.

The Red Lions are heavily favored to prevail over the Altas in their 2 p.m. encounter as they try to regain a share of the lead with the Letran Knights at 5-0.

However, the Mendiola-based squad faces forfeiture as St. Benilde is expected to protest its 51-74 loss to San Beda last Friday, claiming Sam Ekwe played wearing a wrong uniform.

The NCAA has been strict with regards to uniforms. St. Benilde forfeited its game victories in chess, lawn tennis and table tennis on a similar infraction.

St. Benilde board representative Henry Atayde is reportedly awaiting the blessing of school president Bro. Vic Franco before it could file the protest today.

“It would be up to our president,” said Atayde.

Skipper Jacob Manlapaz signed the protest sheet after the game, giving the Blazers two working days or until tomorrow to file the protest.

San Sebastian and Philippine Christian U, both toting 1-4 (win-loss) slates, collide at 4 p.m.