RTU Blue Thunder storm MLQ Stallions

MANILA, Philippines -  Rizal Technological University weathered a late charge by Manuel L. Quezon University to pull off an 84-81 win yesterday in the 13th Universities and Colleges Athletic Association (UCAA) basketball tournament at the Trinity University of Asia gym.

Jopet Quiro’s free throw in the last 6.5 seconds sealed the victory for the RTU Blue Thunder, who notched their third win in four games for a share of the lead with Olivarez College.

MLQU actually had a chance to send the game into overtime but the Stallions made an error and Elias Danga’s attempt from long range was foiled by Kerr Bangeles, enabling the Thunder to escape with the win.

Sandy Cenal and Elias Sarona showed the way for RTU with 19 and 11 points, respectively.

The win also allowed the Blue Thunder to bounce back from their 63-70 loss to Trinity University of Asia last Wednesday with Rodel Pinas firing 17 points and Mark Doligon adding 10 markers for Trinity.

John Paulo Baliday’s two charities in the last 49.7 seconds kept the Stallions within 79-83.