Perkins tows Archers to win column

MANILA, Philippines – Jason Perkins delivered the goods and La Salle finally barged into the win column after hacking out a thrilling 57-55 victory over National University in the 77th UAAP men's basketball tourney at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City Wednesday.

Perkins scored a shot clock buzzer-beating bucket from under the rim to give the Archers a 57-53 advantage with 6.7 ticks left in the game.

Troy Rosario missed on a 3-pointer in the next possession, Gelo Alolino picked up the board and sank a floater for the final score.

In spite of notching their first win in three games, La Salle coach Juno Sauler said there’s no reason to celebrate.

"We can't celebrate. It's too early. We still have to finish better and execute things especially with the injury to Thomas Torres. We need to adjust," said Sauler, referring to the loss of La Salle’s starting guard due to a fractured ankle he sustained in their game against Ateneo last Sunday.

Perkins led the Green Archers with 14 points, including six points in the last two minutes, while he got solid support from Norbert Torres who finished with 13 markers.

Sauler commended his team's defense in the fourth quarter and hoped they can be consistent with their play as the season goes along.

"I think we stepped up defensively. They (NU) scored 55 points. Against FEU and Ateneo we were giving 89 points," said Sauler.

"In the fourth quarter against Ateneo and FEU, we gave up close to 30 points. We just have to toughen up defensively especially in the endgame," he added.

Alfred Aroga topscored for the Bulldogs with 12 points and Rosario chipped.

NU dropped to 1-2 (win-loss).