Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 27) — The Ateneo de Manila University Blue Eagles maintained their impressive performance after defeating the University of Santo Tomas (UST) Growling Tigers, 94-84, on Wednesday evening at the Smart-Araneta Coliseum.
Matt Nieto tallied 22 points on 4-of-6 shooting from beyond-the-arc and three rebounds.
It was a nip-and-tuck affair in the opening quarter as both squads exchanged leads with the Blue Eagles slightly prevailing.
Ateneo built a 55-43 advantage by knocking down a couple of three-point shots at the end of the first half.
The Blue Eagles stepped on the gas further and saw their lead balloon to as high as 22 points in the third frame.
Just when Ateneo thought that they have a game at their fingertips, the Growling Tigers unleashed a fourth quarter rally to trim the deficit within striking distance.
Good thing for the Blue Eagles, their unselfishness on the offensive end created enough separation to seal their fifth consecutive win.
Isaac Go added 13 points, while Thirdy Ravena contributed 12 points for Ateneo.
Marvin Lee and Jordan Sta. Ana combined for 43 markers for UST who suffered their fifth straight setback in the tournament.
The Blue Eagles will next face the National University Bulldogs on September 30, while the Growling Tigers tackle the defending champions De La Salle University Green Archers on the same day.
The scores:
Ateneo (94) – Ma. Nieto 22, Go 13, Ravena 12, Mamuyac 8, Ikeh 7, Asistio 7, Mi. Nieto 6, Tolentino 5, Verano 4, Tio 3, Mallillin 3, Black 2, Mendoza 2, Porter 0.
UST (84) – Lee 22, Sta. Ana 21, Faundo 6, Escalambre 6, Akomo 6, Romero 6, Garcia 4, Huang 4, Basibas 4, Soriano 3, De Guzman 2, Kwawukumey 0, Arana 0.
Quarterscores: 29-23; 55-43; 76-71; 94-84.
