Lyceum turns back Arellano in Fr. Martin Cup

MANILA, Philippines – The Lyceum Philippines University-B Pirates and the Adamson Baby Falcons turned back separate rivals on Monday to grab a share of the early lead in the 20th Fr. Martin Summer Cup basketball tournament at the Trinity University of Asia gymnasium in Quezon City.

Sophomore Winston Baltazar and Joseph Gabayni struck hard in the dying seconds as the Pirates spoiled the debut of coach Jerry Codinera with a 71-66 stopping of the Arellano University Chiefs.

Robbie Darang delivered 18 points for the Adamson Baby Falcons, who outplayed the Emilio Aguinaldo College-ICA Brigadiers, 57-44, in juniors action.

With the win, the Pirates joined the University of the Philippines in the early lead of Group A, while the Baby Falcons are abreast with Manila Patriotic School, also in Group A of the junior contest.

The 6’3 Baltazar led with 20 points and hit a crucial triple in the last 1:21, allowing the Pirates to shatter a 66-all tie.

Gabayni’s follow-up with 45 ticks to go later handed the Pirates a five-point edge, which they preserved till the end.

“It was a close fight. Arellano played differently. And, we’re not used to their game with their new coach. It was a challenge playing against Arellano,” said Pirates coach Bonnie Tan.

Keith Agovida showed the way with 16 points for the Chiefs, who are playing for the first time with Codinera calling the shots.

Ralph Salcedo’s putback with 1:33 to go gave the Chiefs a chance to stay within range, 66-all for the last time.

The Baby Falcons took a 55-38 lead in the last 2:51 behind the efforts of Darang and Ralph Chua, who scored from underneath.