Archers stop Bulldogs, create three-way logjam on top

MANILA, Philippines -- The De La Salle Green Archer sbooked the third Final four ticket, after orchestrating a scintillating come from behind 57-55 victory over the National University Bulldogs in the 76th season of the UAAP men's basketball tournament at the MOA Arena in Pasay City Sunday night.

Jeron Teng paced the Green Archers with 21 points while Jason Perkins added a double double with 18 markers and 10 boards as La Salle improved their record to 9-4 and force a three-way tie with FEU and NU.

Teng, who is struggling from the freethrow line shooting 47%, drained four crucial freebies in the endgame.

"When I was taking  those free throws, iniisip ko lang I'm just going to do what I do in practice," said Teng.

"Every after practice I shoot freethrows and thanks din kay coach Allan (Caidic)," he added.

La Salle went scoreless in the first four minutes of the payoff period and found themselves facing a 42-50 deficit but found their groove late in the game.

The Green Archers unleashed a 15-5 closing run including five clutch free throws, four coming from Teng.

NU had the chance to force overtime but two-time Bobby Parks missed a potential tying 18-footer at the buzzer.

"Our aim is to just keep on improving every ballgame and come out every game mentally tougher," said DLSU Coach Juno Sauler, after La Salle extended their winnijg streak to five.

"But our main priority is to come in every game with the same mindset," he added.

Parks led the Bulldogs with 19 points while Gelo Alolino added 15 points who saw their six-game winning streak snapped.