#FilOil2019: Mendoza shines as debuting EAC upset NU

SAN JUAN -- EAC scored a massive upset to even their Group B card in the FilOil Flying V Preseason cup, after knocking off NU, 77-73 to cap off the seniors division doubleheaders Thursday afternoon at the FilOil Flying V Centre.

The Generals of Oliver Bunyi waited for nine days before catching a big fish from the UAAP, with the much fancied Bulldogs to get their first win of the preseason after being blown out by Adamson in their opener.

What made the win outstanding was EAC's dominance at the boards, as Issa Gaye's 14 rebounds were not enough as the Ermita-based squad won the battle by 9, 48-38.

Jethro Mendoza responded big time after being blanked by the Falcons' stifling defense, leading all scorers with 20 points including five triples, with incoming sophomore JP Maguliano following him at 12.

Dave Ildefonso had 17 points, 6 rebounds and 45 assists for NU, wo fell down at 1-5

The scores

EAC 77 -- Mendoza 20, Maguliano 12, Taywan 8, Tampoc 8, Martin 7, Estacio 6, Carlos 5, De Guzman 4, Gonzales 3, Luciano 2, Gurtiza 2, Boffa 0, Dayrit 0, Cadua 0.

NU 73 -- D. Ildefonso 17, Mosqueda 11, Gaye 10, Clemente 7, Tibayan 7, Gallego 5, Diputado 4, Chatman 4, Oczon 3, S. Ildefonso 3, Yu 2, Abatayo 0, Galinato 0, Minerva 0, Mangayao 0, Sinclair 0, Rangel 0, Salim 0.

Quarter scores: 15-16, 41-31, 58-52, 77-73

(photo: Jethro Mendoza dribbles during EAC's tussle with NU. FilOil FlyingV Sports)