CEBU, Philippines - The KIA Motors/CIT-U Wildcats overhauled a 16-point deficit in the third period to turn back the San Marino Corned Tuna-USPF Panthers, 89-87, in the 6th CESAFI Partner's Cup men's basketball tournament last night at the Cebu Coliseum.San Marino looked good of bouncing back from their 75-77 loss to Prime Asia Lending-UV Lancers last Sunday as they led by 16 points most of the way, the last was at 55-39 on a basket by Fritz Dajalos.
Their huge lead, however, suddenly evaporated as Kia Motors, armed with a crippling defense, staged a daring counter-attack, 31-13, to pull within just six points, 62-68.
Franklyn Batiquin scored on a five-point blitz to put KIA Motors in front for the first time, 81-79 , going into the final two minutes of the contest.
Moments later, Jeffrey Taghoy hit another go-ahead triple, 84-81, and then Axel Rabaya added four straight free throws to give KIA Motors a 89-85 breather with seven seconds left to play.
Floyd Taboada topscored for KIA Motors with 14 points, while Batiquin, Taghoy and Rabaya connived for 21 markers.
Dennis Ferraren paced San Marino with 16 points, while Dajalos and Morris Escanilla had 13 and 10 points, respectively, in a losing cause.
The scores
KIA Motors (89) - Taboada 14, Brigoli 13, Batiquin 12, Taghoy 11, Rabaya 10, Bacla-an 8, Dimco 7, Menguito 6, Tabalin 2
San Marino (87) - D. Ferraren 16, Dajalos 13, Escanilla 10, Sollano 9, J. Ferraren 8, Camello 8, Meca 6, Corcilles 6, Sedurifa 6, Genobia 2, Banate 1 Halftime : 31-45. (FREEMAN)