MANILA, Philippines — Centro Escolar University scored its biggest conquest yet as the Scorpions stunned the National University Bulldogs, 61-58, Wednesday to stay unbeaten in five games in the Filoil Flying V Hanes Premier Cup at Filoil Flying V Arena in San Juan.
The surprising Scorpions, with Rodel de Leon and Joseph Sedurifa sizzling from beyond the arc, built a 14-point lead, 46-32, at the end of the third quarter before withstanding the Bulldogs’ late rally.
“We were able to contain their shooters and low-post game,” CEU coach Egay Macaraya said after the Scorpions pinned on the Bulldogs their first loss in four games.
De Leon, who topscored with 19, and Sedufira combined for six treys to help the Scorpions keep the solo lead in Group C.
The Bulldogs tried to forge overtime but Alfred Aroga missed a three-point attempt in the last 5.6 seconds.
In Group A, Philip Paniamogan fired 10 of Jose Rizal University’s last 12 points as the Heavy Bombers held off the Perpetual Help Altas, 82-73, to improve to 4-2.
Earlier, Jamil Gabawan made a layup off a broken play in the last 13 seconds as Letran survived St. Clare, 83-79, for a 2-2 card in Group B. With a report from Paul A. Lintag
The scores:
First Game
CEU 61—De Leon 19, Sedurifa 10, Batino 9, Casino 8, Opiso 5, Ebondo 4, Jeruta 4, Abundo 2, Mutombo 0, Vargas 0, Banua 0, Amil 0.
NU 58—Aroga 12, Diputado 11, Rosario 10, Alolino 8, Celda 5, Khobuntin 4, Javelona 3, Atangan 3, Perez 2.
Quarters: 7-5, 22-17, 46-32, 61-58