Stags survive fiery Altas; Lions fall

MANILA, Philippines - San Sebastian survived Perpetual Help and escaped with a 77-76 decision for its 14th straight win but San Beda fell in ambush to a resurgent Jose Rizal, 65-76, in the 87th NCAA men’s basketball tournament at The Arena in San Juan City yesterday.

Rookie Earl Thompson had a chance to snatch the victory for the Altas but missed on a drive at the buzzer, enabling the Stags to snatch the win and keep their unbeaten run.

Ronald Pascual fired a game-high 27 points while Calvin Abueva posted his 11th double-double effort with 22 points and 12 rebounds as the Stags moved within four wins away from sweeping the double-round elims.

The Altas, who drew 13 points from John Asuncion and 12 points each from Chris Elopre and George Allen, fell to their 12th loss against three wins.

“What can I say, we got lucky,” said San Sebastian coach Topex Robinson. “I got to tip my cap for Perpetual, they played superb basketball.”

While SSC managed to pull through, San Beda failed to avoid Jose Rizal’s upset axe.

The Bombers showed up with their best defensive effort as they held the Lions, who averaged 85 points before the game, to just 65 points.

The win was a big follow-up to Jose Rizal’s 79-69 triumph over Arellano U last Monday, keeping the Bombers in the hunt for the last semis berth with a 5-9 card.

“It’s overwhelming to beat a powerhouse team like San Beda, it’s a different feeling, I couldn’t describe it actually,” said JRU coach Vergel Meneses.

“We’ve been struggling a lot this season and it’s really a good feeling that we’re starting to make up for those frustrations,” he said.