By MARK REY MONTEJO

Arthur Roque drained pressure-packed free throws to help University of Perpetual Help System Dalta escape Far Eastern University, 74-73, and earn a spot in the semifinal round of the FilOil EcoOil Preseason Cup on Friday, June 16, in San Juan.

Perpetual's Arthur Roque. (FilOil EcoOil Sports Images)

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The Tamaraws were unstoppable from the start as they were ahead in the first three quarters of the match but the Altas triggered a massive comeback in the fourth canto courtesy of a 10-0 run that put them to the driver's seat, 63-62, with seven minutes left in the game.

FEU had some breathing space after mounting a fightback for a 69-64 lead, but Perpetual's JP Boral hit a three-pointer while Roque was just steady from the free-throw line to even the score at 69-all with 2:53 remaining.

After exchanging baskets that saw the Altas carry a 72-71 lead thanks to Jielo Razon and Boral's free throws, Roque showed nerves of steel and sank two charities that sealed their ticket to the Final Four despite Mouhamed Faty's last-ditch attempt that went in.

Roque anchored the Altas with 27 points and six rebounds, while Boral added 15 points, six rebounds and four assists as they brace for a huge collision against the UP Fighting Maroons.

Cholo Anonuevo's double-double effort of 12 points and 11 rebounds went down the drain for FEU.

Meanwhile, De La Salle University demolished Colegio de San Juan de Letrán, 101-79, to advance to the semis against the defending champion NU Bulldogs.

The Green Archers were led by Kevin Quiambao, who registered 23 points and six rebounds.