Racal shines as Knights clamp down on Pirates

MANILA, Philippines -- Kevin Racal sizzled again for the Letran Knights, who turned back the Lyceum Philippines University Pirates, 60-46, yesterday in the 9th Fr. Martin Cup Open Division basketball tournament at the Trinity University of Asia gymnasium in Quezon City.

The six-foot-one shooting guard made 17 points for the Knights, who went on to score their second straight win and earn the solo lead in Group A.

In other games, Jericho Cruz banged in 16 points for the Adamson Falcons, who won over the Arellano University Chiefs, 80-79.

John Monteclaro hit 12 points for the Emilio Aguinaldo College Generals, who outplayed the College of St. Benilde-A Blazers, 67-60.

Racal had 22 points last week when he carried the Knights to a 65-57 stopping of Centro Escolar University in their opening game.

A total of 14 varsity squads are seeing action in this three-monthlong cagefest.

Tournament director Robert de la Rosa said the top four finishers in each group will qualify for the quarterfinals.