La Salle eyes third straight, tackles inspired Mapua

LA SALLE shoots for a third straight victory against a resurgent Mapua squad today even as San Beda makes its debut in the Filoil Flying V Premier Cup in San Juan.

The Green Archers face their toughest test yet in the 5 p.m. game at Filoil Flying V Center with the Cardinals, whose front line is bannered by NCAA Most Valuable Player Allwell Oraeme.

The Red Lions, who are coming off a training stint in the United States, start their campaign against the University of the East Warriors at 3 p.m., after Adamson takes on NCAA champion Letran.

La Salle, which beat Adamson and UE in its first two outings, also boasts a strong front line led by Ben Mbala and Larry Muyang.

Jeron Teng, Kib Montalbo and Thomas Torres are also expected to provide firepower for the Archers.

Rookie coach Aldin Ayo is no stranger to facing the Cardinals, having steered former team Letran past Mapua in the NCAA Final Four last season.

The Cardinals are coming off a morale-boosting 104-94 triumph over the Knights with CJ Isit doing the damage with 23 points and seven assists.

The Red Lions are hoping to reclaim the NCAA title this season with a younger and more athletic squad led by Ranbil Tongco and Dan Sara.