Lions finish strong, turn back Chiefs

MANILA, Philippines - San Beda came out sizzling from a lackluster first half as it unloaded a 65-point splurge in the last two quarters to blast Arellano U, 92-57, yesterday and re-join San Sebastian in the lead in the NCAA men’s basketball tournament at The Arena in San Juan City.

Held to just eight points in the second quarter and 27 in the first half, the Lions came roaring back in the second half, erasing a 12-point deficit, 27-39, in the first minute and seven seconds of the third quarter.

They were on top, 58-50, at the end of the third then poured it all out in the fourth to win pulling away.

“They (Arellano) outran and outplayed us in the second quarter and I make them realize we’re not playing our game, which is running and running,” said San Beda coach Frankie Lim. “I’m glad they turned on the switch in the second half.”

Fil-Aussie Anthony Semerad exploded for 20 points, including 10 in the third period. He also had 10 rebounds.

Rome dela Rosa came through with 16 points, seven rebounds and six assists while Dave Marcelo had 16 points, 14 caroms and five shot blocks and Hermida finished with 11 points, eight rebounds, eight assists and three steals.

The Chiefs fell to their fourth setback against two wins.

Earlier, Kris Alas stepped up in the absence of younger brother Kevin as he powered Letran to a 70-54 romp over St. Benilde.

Alas poured in a season-high 15 points he spiked with another personal best 13 rebounds to anchor the Knights’ second win against four losses.

“I have to give credit where credit is due and he really played well,” said Letran coach Louie Alas referring to his son.

Kevin Alas sat out his second straight game due to a contusion in his left knee he sustained in a game against San Beda two weeks ago.

The Blazers fell to their fourth straight defeat after winning their first game.

In juniors’ action, San Beda smothered Arellano U, 77-41, to stay on top with a 5-1 slate.

Von Chavez and Adam Abatayo paced the Red Cubs with 14 and 10 points, respectively, while Baser Amer finished with nine points, 11 assists and eight rebounds.

The Letran Squires, for their part, edged the St. Benilde Junior Blazers, 68-64, to improve to 3-3.

The Junior Chiefs fell to their sixth defeat in row while the Junior Blazers dropped to 2-3.