Arellano University leaned on a huge fourth quarter rally to frustrate the slumping Letran, 87-80, for its own breakthrough win in the NCAA Season 99 at the FilOil EcoOil Centre in San Juan City on Sunday, Oct. 8.

In the battle of winless teams, the Chiefs emerged as the much hungrier team, unleashing a telling 10-0 run early in the final frame to finally pick up their first win after five games while also sending the Knights to an uncharacteristic 0-5 start in the season.

Felix Villarente led the assault for Arellano with 15 points and six assists – including the booming triple he drilled during the pivotal run which turned a 64-68 deficit into a 74-68 advantage midway through the final period.

Troy Valencia added 15 points while Jade Talampas and Lars Sunga contributed 11 and 10 points, respectively.

Despite the huge run for Arellano, Letran managed to keep in step in the contest, cutting the lead down to just two, 75-73, behind the efforts of Kobe Monje, who did everything he can to help the defending champions score its first win.

A layup from Valencia and a booming triple from Dominic Dayrit, however, allowed the Chiefs to regain footing and seal the deal for its first win.

Monje finished with 18 points while Kurt Reyson added 16 but were not enough to prevent the Knights from falling to their worst start in the season in recent memory.

In the day’s last game, Lyceum of the Philippines U edged San Beda in a 67-62 win that saw Lions coach Yuri Escueta and Pirates center Shawn Umali being tossed out in separate occasions.

LPU remained on top with a pristine 6-0 mark while San Beda fell to 3-2.