Stags gun for eighth straight win vs Cards

MANILA, Philippines - San Sebastian tries to move within a win from a first round sweep as it battles lowly Mapua today even as San Beda and Jose Rizal U dispute second place in the NCAA basketball tournament at The Arena in San Juan City.

The Stags trounced the Bombers, 91-76, last week to stretch their win run to seven for the solo lead. With the Cardinals struggling at 1-6, the Recoletos-based squad is fancied to prevail in their 2 p.m. encounter.

“The reason why we keep on winning is because we follow our defensive plan,” said SSC Ato Agustin. “Credit also should go to the players, who always keep their focus.”

But focus will be on the San Beda-Jose Rizal duel at 4 p.m. with both teams, tied at 7-1, expected to go all out to keep SSC in sight heading into the second round of the elims.

The SBC-JRU clash is also a rematch of last year’s title showdown with the Lions beating the Bombers in three games to complete a three-peat.

“It’s going to be tough, interesting battle,” said San Beda coach Frankie Lim.

“It’s going to be highly emotional and intense,” Jose Rizal mentor Ariel Vanguardia said.

American Sudan Daniel is expected to lead the Lions against the Bombers, led by prolific John Wilson.