MANILA – Far Eastern U clinched the remaining second twice-to-beat bonus as it survived De La Salle University in overtime, 71-69, in the 72nd UAAP men’s basketball at the FilOil Flying V Arena on Saturday.

The Tamaraws relied on rookie-transferee Ryan Garcia in overtime while limiting the Archers to just a field goal to secure the victory.

FEU now has an 11-2 slate while DLSU, who are now on the brink of elimination, fell to 5-8.

“Motivated ang mga bata since twice kaming tinalo ng La Salle last season including sa Final Four.  I’m happy we clinched the twice-to-beat advantage,” said FEU coach Glenn Capacio.

Garcia came to the Tamaraws’ rescue while their usual go-to-guy Andy Barroca struggled with just seven points on 2-of-9 shooting.

Garcia’s basket and his crucial free throw in overtime saved FEU from an impending endgame upset by the Archers.  

Hyram Bagatsing and Joshua Webb combined for 12 in the first half, when La Salle erected an 11-point lead. The duo, however, failed to lift the Archers when it mattered most.

La Salle rookie Joseph Marata tried to rescue the Archers by sending the game to overtime. But the former RP youth team swingman missed a possible game-tying drive in overtime.

Earlier in the game, Garcia teamed up with big man Reil Cervantes in the second half when the Tams snatched the, 57-53.

Cervantes tied his season-high with 20 points, 10 coming off in the pivotal third period. He also grabbed eight boards and made two blocks while frontcourt partner Aldrech Ramos scored 10 markers to go with 19 rebounds.

Garcia chipped in 18 points, 13 in the fourth quarter and overtime.

With a 5-8 slate, La Salle is one and a half game behind University of Sto. Tomas, who could clinch the last Final Four berth with a win on Sunday. By Alder T. Almo

The Scores:

FEU 71 – Cervantes 20, Garcia 18, Ramos 10, Barroca 7, Cawaling 5, Vinluan 3, Tanuan 3, Sanga 3, Knuttel 2, Manalo 0, Caluag 0.

DLSU 69 – Bagatsing 12, Webb 11, Marata 10, Co 10, Andrada 7, Mendoza 6, Tolentino 4, Barua 4, Mangahas 3, Villanueva 2, Bringas 0, Banal 0.

Quarters: 11-15, 27-29, 44-49, 65-65 reg., 71-69 OT.