Lions try to stay perfect vs Generals; Stags, Blazers collide

Will it be perfect 10 for San Beda? The Red Lions gun for their 10 straight win and keep their immaculate record against lowly Emilio Aguinaldo College Generals in the resumption of the NCAA men’s basketball tournament at The Arena in San Juan. The Lions battle the Generals in the main game of the doubleheader at 4 p.m. Defending champion San Sebastian takes on St. Benilde in the other game at 2 p.m. with the Stags hoping to separate themselves at least two games away from their closest pursuer, the Jose Rizal University Heavy Bombers. After sweeping the first-round eliminations, the Lions began their second-round campaign on a bright note by easily disposing off the Generals, 81-63, on Monday behind another solid game from Sudan Daniel. Daniel is currently ranked No. 2 in the race for the coveted Most Valuable Player award. The Mendiola-based squad hopes to move three games away from claiming the first Final Four slot. The Lions have made it to the semis in five of the last six seasons. “We’re trying to win as many games as we can and build our confidence," said San Beda coach Frankie Lim. “Of course, it means nothing if we couldn’t win the title." The Stags carry an 8-1 card. Their lone setback was inflicted by their bitter rivals – the Lions, who came away with an inspiring 88-76 triumph last August 18. "The loss to San Beda served as an eye-opener for us," said San Sebastian coach Ato Agustin. "We’ve learned our lessons." Calvin Abueva, who led the MVP race after the first round, is expected to power San Sebastian anew. - RCJ, GMANews.TV