SAN BEDA brought down long-time nemesis Letran, 102-77, to enter the win column in the Filoil EcoOil Preseason Cup.

Luckless in their first three games under new coach Yuri Escueta, the Red Lions finally got it going just in time for their rivalry game.

James Kwekuteye finished with 18 points, five rebounds, five assists and two steals, while Peter Alfaro chipped in 16 points, four rebounds, and three assists to help the Red Lions end a three-game slide in Group B.

“Of course, the first win is always nice. Swerte, Letran pa kalaban namin. We had a lot of time to practice last week e, so we took advantage of it,” said Escueta.

Tony Ynot, the incoming second-year swingman, starred in San Beda’s 23-5 run that erased its foes’ 8-0 start. All but two of his 10 points came during that timeframe, where his side took control of the contest.

“I just told them to settle down, compose ourselves. We just focus on whatever we’re trying to do, no matter the score,” said Escueta, who took over as the Red Lions mentor last month.

Fran Yu scored 21 points, while Mark Sangalang added in 16 markers and six rebounds for the Knights, the reigning back-to-back NCAA champions who suffered their second straight loss after a 2-0 start.

Meanwhile, National University won over Mapua via forfeiture, 20-0, as the NCAA Season 97 second placers could not meet the minimum of players.

With a 6-0 record, the Bulldogs clinch the first quarterfinals spot in Group A.

The Cardinals, on the other hand, bowed out with their sixth consecutive loss.

Far Eastern University its quarters playoff hopes following a 90-79 triumph over University of Santo Tomas.

Bryan Sajonia pumped in 20 points to go along with five rebounds, three assists, and two steals for the Tamaraws, who rose to 3-3 in Group B.

“Malaki ang ine-expect namin, hindi lang kay Bryan, but our other veterans who will have to step up with the loss of Rhonjhay,” said FEU coach Olsen Racela.