Generals cracking last four?

MANILA, Philippines — The long wait for an NCAA Final Four appearance could end this year for the Emilio Aguinaldo College Generals.

In its best run in its 14 years of participation in the grand old league, EAC enhanced its bid even more as the Generals barged into the magic four following a 78-76 decision over the College of St. Benilde Blazers yesterday at the Filoil EcoOil Arena.

Skipper JP Maguliano was a bright light with 17 points including three crucial foul shots late plus 12 rebounds in powering the Generals to their fifth win against three losses.

“Nararamdaman ko na,” said the fifth-year player Maguliano of EAC’s prospect of finally making the Final Four.

Maguliano utterly outplayed reigning MVP Will Gozum, who continued to underperform and finished with 14 points and five boards.

“Bukod sa scouting, meron din ako sa sarili ko na scouting kagabi, pinanood ko whole game nila pati ni Gozum,” he said.

For EAC coach Ronald Cabiltes, who instantly brought in a winning culture in taking the coaching reins this year, defense was the key.

“It was defense, we made some adjustments in the fourth quarter,” said Cabiltes.

The Blazers fell to the lower half of the chart with a 4-4 slate.

In the other game, San Beda whipped up a big second-half storm as it routed San Sebastian, 76-53, to remain at No. 2 with a 6-2 mark.