PCCL: La Salle downs Mapua

MANILA, Philippines—De La Salle clamped up on defense when it mattered most as it survived Mapua, 56-51, Wednesday to move on to the next phase of the Philippine Collegiate Championship League (PCCL) at the Filoil Flying V Arena in San Juan.

The Green Archers lost a 48-41 lead but made the necessary adjustments that held the Cardinals scoreless in the last 4:05 of the game.

Luigi Dela Paz led La Salle’s balanced attack with 11 points, nine of which came in the second half.

Almond Vosotros added 10 points, including a free throw that gave the Archers a 54-51 breathing room with 19.1 seconds left.

Mapua still had enough time but Jonathan Banal’s quick-two point attempt went out.

Yousef Taha’s 18 points paced the Cardinals, who missed the services of Allan Mangahas and Josan Nimes.

With the win, La Salle set up a date with Centro Escolar University Thursday at 4 p.m. with the winner clinching a Sweet 16 seat.

CEU walloped St. Francis, 68-50, in the first game.