St. Benilde Overpowers San Sebastian Behind Strong Second-Half Defense

NCAA St. Benilde improved to 3-3 in the 19th Filoil EcoOil Preseason Cup after pulling away in the second half to defeat San Sebastian, 91-68.

The Blazers struggled with turnovers in the first half, allowing the Golden Stags to take an eight-point lead. However, St. Benilde tightened up defensively after the break, limiting San Sebastian to just 20 points in the second half. The improved defense sparked their transition offense, helping them pull away for the win.

“We held them to just 20 points in the second half,” said the Blazers’ coach. “Our defense was crucial — not only in taking care of the ball but also in fueling our offense and creating easy baskets.”

Rookie standout Jucom continued his strong form, finishing with 16 points, a team-high five steals, and three rebounds. Veteran forward Justine Sanchez added 11 points and five assists, while Joshua Cajucom, Mowell Morales, Ian Torres, and Jio Gonzaga each contributed nine points.

Matthew Acosta led San Sebastian with 16 points, though six players on the team were held scoreless.

In the other game, Emilio Aguinaldo College defeated Perpetual, 84-63. The Generals dominated the second half, holding Perpetual to just 25 points while forcing numerous turnovers and converting them into 25 points. Joseph Nunag and Marvin James Raymundo led EAC with 13 points each, while the team successfully limited Perpetual’s Marc Gojo Cruz to just seven points. LA Casinillo was the only Altas player to reach double figures with 10 points.