MANILA, Philippines – Defending champions San Beda Red Lions continued their winning ways in the presence of new coach Boyet Fernandez in the ongoing 9th Fr. Martin Cup Collegiate Open.

With Fernandez observing quietly from the bench, the Red Lions won their second consecutive game with a hard-earned 66-60 victory over the College of St. Benilde-B Blazers at the Arellano University gym.

Baser Amer sizzled with 22 points for the Red Lions, who claimed their third win in four games in Group A.

Last week, the Red Lions gave Fernandez a great welcome by surviving a late comeback by the University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons for a 63-61 win.

Just like their previous game, Fernandez allowed assistant coach JB Sison to call the shots for the Red Lions.

The Blazers led 58-55 when the Red Lions turned the tables on them in the final four minutes. An 11-2 wind-up led by Kyle Pascual and JM Mendoza gave the Red Lions the upperhand in the ensuing play.

Ryusei Koga capped the run with a three-pointer and a split at the free throw line.

In a later game, the Informatics Icons drew 21 points from Cedric Ablaza as they put away the Emilio Aguinaldo College Generals, 85-71.

Both the Blazers and the Icons are seeking spots in the quarterfinal round. The top four teams in each of the two brackets will advance to the quarters.