Altas drub Pirates, Lions rap Knights

MANILA, Philippines — University of Perpetual Help drew strength from Mark Gojo Cruz and its rock-solid interior defense as it turned back Lyceum of the Philippines U, 73-61, yesterday and claimed a piece of the lead in NCAA Season 101 at the Filoil EcoOil Arena.

Gojo Cruz, a sophomore gunner who is a product of the school’s high school program, erupted for 18 points including 12 in the second quarter when the Altas turned a shaky one-point edge into a double-digit lead that they nursed until the end.

It was the second win in a row for the Las Piñas-based dribblers, who joined the back-to-back title-seeking Mapua Cardinals at the helm.

“I’m conditioning my mind that even though I’m just a sophomore, I still have to lead,” said Gojo Cruz, who spiked his strong scoring game with four rebounds, the same number of assists and three steals.

Later, San Beda also grabbed a share of top spot after blasting bitter rival Letran, 68-58.

The Knights slipped to 0-2.