Cardinals overpower Blazers despite series of injured players, suspended coach

Josan Nimes battles it out against Blazers' key defenders. Ric Arlos

By Ric Arlos

SAN JUAN, MM--The Mapua Cardinals extended their winning streak to three as they faced the College of St. Benilde Blazers and came victorious, 76-64, in another fierce NCAA match-up on Friday at the FilOil Flying V Arena.

The Cardinals, with the help of "Prime Nimester" Josan Nimes, started the game on a high note after pacifying the Blazers to just seven points for the whole first quarter and take a 22-point advantage. Nimes contributed a whooping 11 points for the Intramuros-based team in the opening period, leaving the Blazers in shambles.

Meanwhile, the Cardinals faced a dilemma on second quarter after field scorer C.J. Isit dislocated his left shoulder when he was accidentally tripped while running for the ball. He was immediately rushed to UERM Hospital and later on declared out of danger.

Injured Cardinal C.J. Isit while being attended to by NCAA's medical staff. Ric Arlos 

The Blazers, on the other hand, tried to lessen the wide lead through team captain Jonathan Grey, when he rained a total of 10 points before halftime. The quarter still ended though in favor of the Cardinals, 47-27.

Seems like their also in for a series of injuries as the Cardinals suffered another handicap during the third quarter.

Josan Nimes hurt his right hamstring and left the playing court in the middle of the game.

Cardinals' Allwell Oraeme and Darell Menina, contributing 19 and 13 points in total, provided boost for the ailing team and was proved to be essential after successfully defending the game until the end.

During the press interview, Cardinals' assistant coach Ed Cordero said that they dedicate the game to Head Coach Atoy Co. Co was suspended for one game after a controversial "shirt-whirling" scene during their game against the Lyceum Pirates. "We dedicate this win to Coach Atoy." said the assistant coach.

The Cardinals will face the JRU Heavy Bombers on Tuesday at 2 p.m.

Box Scores:

Mapua 76-Oraeme 19, Menina 13, Nimes 11, Aguirre 7, Isit 6, Raflores 6, Biteng 4, Que 3, Nieles 3, Villasenor 2, Brana 2, Serrano 0, Layug 0, Dela Rosa 0

CSB 64-J.J. Domingo 14, Grey 14, Nayve 12, Fajarito 10, San Juan 6, Ongteco 4, Jonson 2, Deles 2, J.S. Domingo 0, Sta. Maria 0, Castor 0, Saavedra 0, Flores 0, Young 0

Quarterscores: 29-7, 47-27, 67-38, 76-64