INQUIRER Sports

BACOLOD CITY — Visayas champion West Negros University worked behind a crippling full-court press to subdue Mindanao titlist Holy Trinity College, 93-77, Tuesday night in the Philippine Collegiate Champions League zonal qualifying tournament at the WNU Gym.

With their solid defense, the Mustangs broke away from the Wildcats in the second half en route to the win that tied them with Arellano University Chiefs for the lead in the four-team tournament that dangles two spots to the “Sweet 16.”

The Chiefs, who advanced to this phase as the NCAA fifth placer, survived the University of San Carlos Warriors, 79-74.

Alfie Villariza, Jeff Jacinto and Jetric Sumido combined for 43 points for the Mustangs, who built a 20-point bubble late in the third period.

“We cannot expect to qualify if we play the way we did tonight,” said WNU coach Troy Sarabia, whose squad was to play University of San Carlos last night in the event sponsored by PLDT and Smart.

Sumido drilled back-to-back triples for a 69-49 WNU lead with three minutes remaining in the third period.

The scores:

WNU 93—Villariza 15, Sumido 14, Jacinto 14, Suyod 9, Jaca 9, Merin 7, Catalino 6, Javelona 6, Dapar 6, Lauron 4, Agudelo 3.

HTC 77—Roxas 19. Lamanilao 15, Pragados 14, Landicho 8, Masiana 8, Esguerra 6, Masaglang 4, Versoza 2, De Mesa 1.

Quarters: 25-18, 48-38, 73-60, 93-77