James Forrester’s hot shooting carries Arellano past Lyceum

MANILA, Philippines — James Forrester exploded from downtown, towing Arellano to a 58-49 victory over Lyceum towards the close of the 88th NCAA men’s basketball tournament.

Forrester knocked down five three-pointers to finish with 24 points, added seven rebounds, an assist, block and steal each to help the Chiefs get their sixth win.

“We wanted to play the game the same way, whether we’re up by 20 or down, or have a chance to make it to the championship or not,” said Arellano head coach Koy Banal.

Arellano missed the final four bus anew, but wants a respectable finish at the end of the eliminations.

There was not letting up for Arellano, which held on to a double-digit lead — hiking it up to 13 points at one point — throughout the payoff period.

A shot-clock beating long two from Rocky Acidre, who chalked up nine marks and three boards, with 3:05 to go served as the dagger in favor of the Chiefs.

Shane Ko tried to spark a run in the fourth quarter but no one from the Pirates responded, as they absorbed their 14th loss of the season.

Ko finished with 22 points, four rebounds and four assists for Lyceum.