La Salle fends off CSB in battle of Taft teams, enters Filoil semis

De La Salle University asserted its mastery over sister school De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde, 83-74, in their quarterfinal encounter in the FilOil EcoOil 15th Preseason Cup on Tuesday.

The Green Archers, though, had to get the win the hard way.

After leading by 14 at the half, 42-28, the Blazers staged a fightback in the third period following a 33-24 rampage instigated by Will Gozum, Miggy Corteza, and Frederick Pasturan.

A Gozum basket early in the fourth then brought CSB to within three, 72-69, but La Salle staved off its Taft neighbor en route to the win.

Youngster Kevin Quiambao paced the Green Archers with 18 points, seven assists, five rebounds, and two steals as they booked the third semifinals slot.

La Salle now awaits the winner between University of the Philippines and Far Eastern University.

"Nag-step up lang ako kasi medyo off lang 'yung game namin sa start," said Quiambao in the post-game interview.

Gozum's double-double of 26 points, 10 rebounds, two steals, and one block went for naught as CSB formally bowed out of contention.

—JMB, GMA News