LYCEUM Northwestern University Dukes power-forward Aljick Aquino scored a game high of 25 points, six of them in the last three minutes and off-guard Roxar Melendez converted vital two free throws nine seconds left to nip the surging arch rival PhilCST Topnotch, 78-75, in a last game of the elimination round of the 2016 Universities Colleges Athletic Association of Pangasinan Jimmy Fernandez Basketball Challenge marred by a scuffle.

Rattled in the first 35 minutes due to pressure and stifling defense of Topnotch to yield the first three quarters, 19-22, 33-40 and 49-55, the ‘never-say-die’ wards of Gilmark Meneses gradually crept halfway on the fourth and final quarter with Aquino and Melendez alternately taking the offensive scoring. The important defensive rebounds of center Mariano Catabay helped after Topnotch missed three consecutive shots.

Dukes topped the elimination round with six wins and no loss while Topnotch took four wins but suffered two losses.

The two will meet again for the championship match next week in the best-of-three series at the same venue. AIE Green Eagles and PIMSAT Dragons will battle for third place via knockout game. (Jesus Garcia, Jr)

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