SUSTAINING its defensive ferocity, Perpetual Help put the clamps on reigning Most Valuable Player Allwell Oraeme as the Altas beat the Mapua Cardinals, 71-51, yesterday for their fifth straight win in the 92nd NCAA basketball at Filoil Flying V Centre.
The Altas held the Cardinals to just 18 points in the first two quarters, while turning to swingman Gab Dagangon and center Bright Akhuetie for firepower as they finished the first round with a 7-2 record.
Dagangon tallied 20 points and grabbed 11 rebounds while Akhuetie wound up with 11 points and 12 boards for the Altas who are assured of finishing the first round at second spot .
Averaging close to 19 points in the first seven games, Oraeme was held to just six points this time as Prince Eze and Akhuetie took turns in making life difficult for the towering Nigerian.
Earlier, Emilio Aguinaldo College closed out the first round with a 3-6 record after whipping St. Benilde, 76-56.
The Scores
Second Game
PERPETUAL 71—Dagangon 20, Akhuetie 11, Singontiko 10, Coronel 9, Pido 8, Eze 5, Hao 4, Dizon 4, Sadiwa 0, Oliveria 0, Gallardo 0, Yuhico 0.
MAPUA 51—Menina 13, Estrella 8, Aguirre 8, Biteng 7, Oraeme 6, Bunag 4, Victoria 2, Eriobu 2, Serrano 1, Orquina 0, Raflores 0, Dela Rosa 0.
Quarters: 15-8, 34-18, 48-34, 71-51.