Games today:

(Filoil EcoOil Centre)

9:30 a.m. — Mapua vs Perpetual

3 p.m. — Arellano vs JRU

Emilio Aguinaldo College tightened the defensive screws in the fourth quarter as it clipped College of Saint Benilde, 78-76, to reclaim its place inside the magic four in Season 99 National Collegiate Athletic Association men's basketball tournament yesterday at the Filoil EcoOil Arena.

The Generals held the Blazers to just three points in the last three minutes while scoring seven to snare their fifth win in eight outings, good for a spot in the upper half of the leaderboard.

In contrast, EAC shoved Saint Benilde down to the bottom half after the latter slid to 4-4.

"We made some adjustments in our defense that's why we were able to catch up with them," said EAC coach coach Jerson Cabiltes.

Team captain JP Maguliano, pulled off one of his many strong showings with 17 points, including three clutch free throws late and 12 rebounds.

"The reason why came up with a good game was team effort because I can't do it alone. We had to help each other out," Maguiliano said.

Diminutive but big-hearted guard Kyle Ochavo likewise came through big with nine points, seven caroms and the same number of assists and drew praises from his coach.

"He's good but just like any other rookie, he commits mistakes and he needs to learn more," said Cabiltes of his lightning-quick facilitator.