Archers survive Tamaraws

(Abu Tratter of DLSU Green Archers shooting a free throw. Photo by Justin Robert Valencia, Dapitan Post)

De La Salle Green Archers triumphed over the FEU Tamaraws, 95-90, in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) Men's Basketball tournament, Sunday at the Mall of Asia (MOA) Arena, Pasay City.

Even without star player Ben Mbala, who is currently playing for Cameroon in the AfroBasket, Archers managed to dominate the Tams for the first three quarters before breaking down in the endgame while doing just enough to win.

Archers biggest lead was 23 points.

Archers started the game on fire scoring 29 points while limiting the Tamaraws to just 11 points in the 1st canto.

When the Tamaraws threaten to trim the deficit in the third quarter, DLSU floor general Kib Montalbo responded with three triples.

DLSU coach Aldin Ayo revealed his plan when 'Big Ben' comes back from AfroBasket in Tunisia.

"We might play Ben at the three-spot when he comes back," he bared.

Aljun Melecio led the Archers with a game-high 29 points to go with his six rebounds.

Ron Dennison, Wendell Comboy and Prince Orizu combined to score 46 of the Tams' 90 points.

FEU will look to bounce back against the UE Red Warriors on September 13 at the Big Dome. DLSU will next face the NU Bulldogs on September 16 also at the Big Dome.