MANILA — College of Saint Benilde wrested the solo lead back in the National Collegiate Athletic Association men’s basketball tournament after blasting winless Emilio Aguinaldo College, 73-61, Saturday at the Filoil EcoOil Centre.

The Blazers took command in the fourth quarter, as Prince Carlos completed a three-point play to give his squad a 63-52 edge at the 8:39 mark.

It was a tough payoff period for the Generals, who struggled mightily from the field, shooting 4-of-18 as they went down to their fifth consecutive loss.

St. Benilde moved out of a tie with Lyceum of the Philippines University for the league’s best record with a 5-1 record.

Migs Oczon was solid in his return after a two-game absence for the Blazers with 14 points, five rebounds and three assists in 26 minutes of action.

“I just trusted my teammates. I trusted the system,” said Oczon. “I’ll gonna repay yung ibinigay nilang tiwala.”

Miggy Corteza added 12 points, eight boards and two blocks, while Will Gozum came through with 11 points and 13 rebounds for the Blazers.

Allen Liwag had 15 points and 12 rebounds, Ralph Robin also scored 12 points to go with six rebounds and five assists while JP Maguliano had 10 points and eight boards for EAC.

The scores:

Benilde (73) — Oczon 14, Corteza 12, Gozum 11, Carlos 9, Cullar 8, Pasturan 7, Nayve 6, Sangco 2, Lepalam 2, Marcos 2, Davis 0, Sumabat 0.
EAC (61) — Robin 15, Liwag 15, Maguliano 10, Bajon 4, Cosa 4, Tolentino 3, Doria 3, Umpad 3, Cosejo 2, Luciano 2, Balowa 0, Dominguez 0, Quinal 0.
Quarterscores: 24-13, 43-39, 57-52, 73-61