Game today
Lucena City
5 p.m.- Star vs. Talk ‘N Text
MAHINDRA ended its slump on a day believed by many to bring bad luck as the Enforcers tripped the NLEX Road Warriors, 103-93, to nail their first victory in the 41st PBA Philippine Cup at the Philsports Arena in Pasig City.
The Enforcers were in offensive rhythm in the Friday The 13th showdown as they had five players scoring in double figures in their first victory in four matches.
“We played with a sense of urgency. I told them to not get frustrated and just keep believing,” said Mahindra assistant coach Chito Victolero. “Medyo nawala na rin yung pressure dahil nakuha na namin yung first win. Yung mga bata, they really worked hard on our practice. They want to prove something, they want to prove that they can win.”
Enrico Villanueva of NLEX wins a rebound battle against Mahindra’s Kyle Pascual. (INQUIRER PHOTO)
Mahindra chalked up its breakthrough win in the All-Filipino tournament without playing-coach Manny Pacquiao, who is on an overseas trip.
Niño Canaleta and Aldrech Ramos played solid against their former team as they each fired 14 points.
Kyle Pascual also scored 14 markers, LA Revilla added 13, while journeyman Mark Yee chipped in 11 points.
Mahindra surprisingly took full control of the match, posting leads of as many as 21 points in the fourth.
Revilla produced nine of his total in the payoff period that helped the Enforcers thwart a rallying NLEX, which ended the match with a 23-12 run.
The Road Warriors suffered their second straight defeat after starting the tournament with back-to-back victories.
Going down the drain was Asi Taulava’s solid game as the veteran NLEX center piled up 31 points, nine rebounds and a block in 32 minutes of action.
THE SCORES
MAHINDRA 103 – Canaleta 14, Pascual 14, Ramos 14, Revilla 13, Yee 11, Hubalde 9,Guinto 8, Pinto 7, Bagatsing 5, Alvarez 4, Dehesa 2, Webb 2, Jaime 0.
NLEX (93) – Taulava 31, Anthony 19, Enciso 9, Arboleda 8, Villanueva J. 8, Borboran 5, Cardona 4, Alas 3, Camson 2, Reyes 2, Apinan 1, Villanueva E. 1, Khobuntin 0, Lanete 0.
QUARTERSCORES: 26-16, 51-43, 74-60, 103-93.