NCAA: Letran turns up defense in crucial win over Benilde

Letran Knights. NCAA PICTURES

MANILA, Philippines — Using a stifling defense, Letran toppled St. Benilde College at the helm and extended their winning streak to eight games on Saturday.

Letran coach Bonnie Tan said the defense was all the difference in their crucial win as the Knights were able to put down the Blazers’ main guys.

Tan challenged his big men Louie Sangalang and Pao Javillonar by limiting St. Benilde star Will Gozum and his delivered wards.

“Will (Gozum) is playing his best season and he is an MVP candidate. My challenge for my greats is to work together. I challenged Louie and Pao, asking them if two can win against a key player,” said tan after Victory of Letran 74-66 at the San Juan Arena.

Will Gozum had another double-double with 12 points and 13 rebounds, but the MVP favorite shot just 37.5% from the field, making just six of 16 attempts.

Sangalang, on the other hand, beat Gozum finishing with 21 points on a 64.3 percent effective clip, nine rebounds and three blocks.

Tan was also wary of CSB Migs sniper Oczon and it was the turn of Letran guard Fran Yu to step in defensively.

“Oczon is the second top scorer so we really made it difficult for them. I know they can score but we have to make it difficult for them,” he said.

Yu made sure to answer the call as he held Oczon to just four points on 1-for-6 shooting from the field.

“The coach told us that whoever the top scorer was, we had to lock them in. Will was also at fault, so our game plan worked,” said Yu, who registered five points and 10 assists.

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