Granny Goose survives Toyota in PBL

Granny Goose Tortillos squandered a 45-25 lead early in the third period but recovered on time to beat the NCAA-reinforced Toyota Otis Letran, 62-54, in the 2005 PBL Heroes Cup played at the JCSCO gym in Cubao, Quezon City.

It was a fitting victory for outgoing Cebunao coach Jun Tan, who asked the GMC management for a break. He will be replaced by veteran coach Joe Lipa in their next game starting on Tuesday.

Toyota, led by NCAA MVP Boyet Bautista, came back from a 20-point deficit to a striking distance at six points, 48-42, but Toti Almeda scored back-to-back baskets to pad the lead back to eight, 56-48, a few seconds left in the ballgame.

Almeda, one of the most consistent scorers from the UP Fighting Maroons, scored 10 points in the fourth period alone to help the Tortillos maintain the lead. He finished with 15 points.

Cebuano center from UV Joseph Ronald Quiñahan, was chosen the best player also with his 15 points along with seven rebounds, one assist and one blockshot.

The other plus factor for the Tortillos who now had 1-1 win-loss record under coach Tan, was Quiñahan's neighbor from Mandaue Jett Latonio who was very offensive-minded during the first two periods. He was the third man from the Tortillos who finished with 15 points.