Lapu-Lapu Chiefs log nail-biting win against Iligan Crusaders in PSL U-21 hoops tourney
ARQ Builders-Lapu-Lapu City Chiefs U-21 squad take a pose after winning their first game in the PSL U21 Aspirants Division Invitational Cup. | Photo from Roger Bergado’s Facebook page.
CEBU CITY, Philippines — The ARQ Builders-Lapu-Lapu Chiefs opened their campaign in the 2022 Pilipinas Super League (PSL) U-21 Aspirants Division Invitational Cup with a nerve-racking victory against the KSB Iligan Crusaders, 73-72, on Sunday, April 3, 2022 at the Manuel Roxas Sports Complex.
Mitch Almodal led the Chiefs with nine markers, four rebounds, and two steals to grab their first hard-earned win in the tournament.
The Lapu-Lapu Chiefs were cruising smoothly by building a commanding lead, 66-54, and even extended it as much as 15 in the fourth period with Zaldy Dizon topping it with his back-to-back jumpers from the baseline.
However, from a 15-point lead midway in the fourth period, the Crusaders turned the tables and went on a scoring blitz and grabbed the lead, 72-71, headed by Jerick Cañete who capitalized from several turnovers committed by Lapu-Lapu with 30 seconds left.
With 10 seconds left, Dizon sank a crucial jumper from the baseline that gave Lapu-Lapu Chiefs the lead, 73-71. Jerick Bancale then had a crucial steal that prevented Iligan from gaining a possession and held on until the final buzzer.
The loss spoiled Jerick Cañete’s 32-point performance for the Crusaders.
Before the thrilling final period, both teams had a cold start, finishing the first period with a 15-10 score. Both teams also struggled from both ends of the floor, each committing more than 20 turnovers.
Nonetheless, Lapu-Lapu of coach Roger Bergado passed their first game test. Their next assignment is against the Iligan City Archangeles on Friday, April 8 at 3:00 PM.
RELATED STORIES
Sarok Weavers rout Kingfishers in PSL Under-21 hoops tourney
Lapu-Lapu Chiefs’ U-21 team ready for PSL debut against Iligan Crusaders
Consolacion Sarok Weavers off to flying start in PSL U-21 hoops
Consolacion Sarok Weavers join PSL U-21 hoops
Consolacion Sarok Weavers locked and loaded for PSL U-21 wars
PSL commissioner Marc Pingris vows harsh penalties for game-fixing
/dbs
Disclaimer: The comments uploaded on this site do not necessarily represent or reflect the views of management and owner of Cebudailynews. We reserve the right to exclude comments that we deem to be inconsistent with our editorial standards.
