MANILA – Ilonggo Edgar Charcos took over the scoring in the endgame as the University of Perpetual Help Altas cruised to an 80-78 win over Mapua University Cardinals in the NCAA Season 95 men’s basketball on Tuesday at San Juan Arena.
With the score tied at 69-all, Charcos was able to draw a foul on Denniel Aguirre for two freebies to put the Altas ahead 71-69 before scoring eight more points for a 77-69 advantage.
The Cardinals went on a late rally to come to as close as 78-79 on a three-pointer by Laurenz Victoria. Charcos increased the edge to 80-78 with a free throw before seeing Cardinals missed its final attempt.
The Iloilo City native scored 11 of his 16 points in the final quarter for the Altas. The former University of the East Red Warrior also had eight rebounds, five assists, and two steals.
Tonton Peralta led the Altas in scoring with 20 points while Razon added 10 points, four assists, two rebounds, and two steals and Benedict Adamos contributed eight points, 10 rebounds, and two blocks.
“Well, it’s a show of character para sa team ko. I felt na Mapua is really stronger than our team. Tinambakan kami ng 38 points niyan noong pre-season,” said Altas head coach Frankie Lim.
Warren Bonifacio finished with near double-double 15 points and nine rebounds, while rookie Cyril Gonzales added 14 markers for the losing Cardinals.
Meanwhile, RK Ilagan waxed hot with five triples as the San Sebastian College Stags scored an 82-51 domination over Jose Rizal University Heavy Bombers. Ilagan finished the match with 25 points./PN
