Event: TechKNOWlogy Launch
Credits: The Visayan Daily Star
A one-point lead, 13-12, by Meralco Bolts against Alaska Aces, in a low-scoring first quarter threatened to disappoint the Negrense crowd that trooped to Victorias City Sports and Amusement Center, Saturday for another out-of-town PBA game.
But coach Ryan Gregorio and the Bolts electrified the crowd and stunned the Aces middle of third quarter to get away with a come-from-behind 83-71 win that made the game one of the classic actions in PBA’s Philippine Cup.
“It’s a monster victory for us. We fought hard, did not give up and were rewarded with our effort,” Gregorio said in the PBA website as he lauded his wards for a good job.
“We dug deep into our hearts and made the impossible possible. Defense was the key and we scored enough to win,” Gregorio said.
Chris Ross provided the spark late in the third quarter as rookie Hans Thiele and Chris Pacana combined forces to erase a 14-point Aces lead in the early quarters.
With Macmac Cardona still nursing an injury, the Bolts kept their focus to deal the Aces their fourth straight victory in the tournament.
Guangzhou Asiad-boudn Asi Taulava provided the bulk for the Bolts, while Beau Belga engaged Aces big men at low post as the Bolts pulled away in the final quarter for their third win in eight games.
Five Meralco players scored in double figure -- Ross 16, Gab Espinas 14, Taulava 12, Thiele 11, Belga 10 -- as the squad displayed an outstanding performance that earned the respect of the basketball-loving Negrenses.
Alaska was led by Joe Devance with 21 points while Sonny Thoss contributed 12 markers. Cyrus Baguio chipped in 10 points for the Aces losing quest as LA Tenorio ended the game with seven points.*NAB
