De La Salle College of Saint Benilde stretched their win streak to three games as they overcame Emilio Aguinaldo College, 87-82, Friday at the Filoil Centre in San Juan City.
Despite resting their key players due to them already being assured of a twice-to-beat bonus, the Blazers improved to 9-3 win-loss record with the help of returning big man Allen Liwag, who scored a team-high 16 points and eight rebounds.
Matthew Oli and Jio Gonzaga also had stellar performances for Benilde off the bench, contributing 14 and 12 points respectively.
Benilde head coach Charles Tiu said he is glad that his team hit all their objectives today in preparation for their playoff endeavors.
“Our goals in this game was to get guys some rest, some other guys some reps, and come up with a win, and we were able to check all three,” said Tiu.
For the Blazers coach however, it’s back to a clean slate as he acknowledges the gravity of this year’s tournament format.
“Now it’s back to zero and this is where the real fun or challenge starts. They said with this format, basically, any team has a chance, and I guess that’s what they’re going to get right now,” Tiu added.
Last year’s finalist started the game off on the back foot, trailing EAC at the half, 47-37. However, by committee, the Blazers were able to chomp away from the Generals’ lead, exemplified by only holding EAC to 15 points in the final quarter.
Getting the needed reps in before the playoffs, reigning NCAA Most Valuable Player Liwag stated that he was just happy to get back on the court after a few weeks out.
“Okay naman, hindi na siya sumasakit and talagang naka-recover na rin nang maayos kasi inalagaan din ako ng school, coaches, at mga PT namin,” asserted Liwag after being asked on the condition of his shoulder.
Meanwhile, the skid continues for EAC, falling to four wins and nine losses at the end of the classification round. The Generals, however, still have an opportunity to make the quarterfinals when they face Jose Rizal University in the play-in round.
Scores:
Benilde 87 - Liwag 16, Oli 14, Gonzaga 12, Eusebio 9, Moore 9, Daja 6, Galas 5, Morales 5, Gaspay 4, Celis 3, Cometa 2, Jalalon 2, Ancheta 0, Cometa 0.
EAC 82 - Bagay 25, Lucero 20, Castillo 10, Quinal 7, Omandac 6, Angeles 5, Ochavo 3, Bacud 2, Dominguez 2, Tolentino 2, Devara 0, Jacob 0, Loristo 0, Postanes 0, Shanoda 0.
Quarter scores: 17-23, 37-47, 65-67, 87-82.
—JKC, GMA Integrated News
