CEBU, Philippines - The GCM cagers and Vanese Justine bested separate foes at the start of the semifinal round in the 5th F. Llamas Youth Association (FYA) basketball tournament at the barangay Tisa gym.
John Fernandez unloaded 23 points as GCM escaped with a 75-68 win over Benedict, while Duke Teves also fired 23 markers as Vanese Justine eked out an 83-78 decision over the Evoo Resto Bar.
GCM will play next against Harold's Hotel, with the winner setting up a championship match with either Vanese Justine or MBL Law Office.
The scores
First game
GCM (75) - J. Fernandez 23, Laborte 18, Tapdasan 14, E. Fernandez 14, Tomada 3, Barro 2, Oropa 1
Benedict (68) - Patalita 22, Dacayana 18, Marata 12, Abella 8, Garcia 4, Malicay 2, Abella 2
Second game
Vanese Justine (83) - Teves 23, C. Llegunas 18, Sydiongco 17, Jakosalem 8, J. Llegunas 7, Pasarello 4, Pacana 2, Villordon 2, Pacubas 2
Evoo Resto Bar (78) - Alkuino 17, Caballes 15, Endrina 13, Mayol 10, Ponce 5, Macachor 4 (GGM) (FREEMAN)