MANILA, Philippines—The University of Santo Tomas senior team notched three straight wins and pulled away from the field in the 2nd National Collegiate Billiards League (B-League) at the Star Billiards Center in Grace Village, Quezon City, on Sunday.
The Growling Tigers blanked University of the East, 3-0, and Ateneo, 3-0, before winning by default over University of Makati, 3-0, to raise their total to 25 points, four points ahead of Far Eastern U and Letran.
FEU subdued AMA, 2-1, Ateneo, 3-0, and Mapua, 2-1; while Letran won by default over UMak, San Beda and San Sebastian in the event supported by Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office, Philip Escudero of Malungai Life Oil, Mandarin Sky restaurant, Hermes Sports Bar, I-Bar, Golden Leaf Restaurant, Bugsy Promotions and the Billiards Managers and Players Association of the Philippines.
Against UE, UST’s Cedric Gonzales beat CJ Hernandez, 7-3, in 9-ball; Rodlin John Bautista won by default over Anthony Caubalejo in 10-ball; and Gerthee Estrella and Carlo Cruz likewise prevailed by default in the 10-ball doubles.
In juniors play, Claret absorbed a 1-2 loss to St. Paul but remained on top with 10 points.
Hans Pablo averted a shutout for Claret when he thwarted Kyle Torrente, 7-4, in the 10-ball competition.
Team Standings: (Srs) 25 points—UST; 21—FEU, Letran; 20—Fatima; 19—Ama; 17—Lyceum, SSC, AdU; 16—STI; 12—TUP; 11—AU; 10—UE; 9—Mapua; 8—Trinity, UMak; 6—PCC; 5—Ateneo, CEU; 2—SBC; (Jrs); 10—Claret; 9—Xavier, Arellano, Sto. Niño, PCC; 7—St. Mary’s, St. Paul; 5—LSGH; 2—Ateneo