The Heavy Bombers got off to a poor start and trailed the Dolphins, 12-29, early in the second quarter. They slowly trimmed the deficit in the third quarter and, working like a diesel engine, took the lead for the first time at 76-75 on two charities by Joel Finuliar, only 2:23 left.
The Dolphins never regained the upperhand the rest of the way as they came so close to a second victory in five games. PCU’s lone victory this season came at the expense of defending champion St. Benilde, struggling with three straight losses for a 2-3 record.
Earlier, a fumbling San Sebastian squad committed a total of 25 turnovers but still went on to beat San Beda, 81-77, and forge a three-way tie for second place with Mapua and Letran at 3-2.
It was the second straight victory for the Stags following a 61-55 decision over Philippine Christian University last Monday. The loss, on the other hand, was the fourth straight for the Red Lions since an opening-day win over PCU.
After giving the Red Lions their last taste of the lead at 71-70, the Stags, behind 6-foot-7 Clark Moore and reigning MVP Mark Macapagal, unleashed a 9-0 run for a 79-71 lead heading into the final two minutes.
The Red Lions threatened anew at 77-80 but bungled a chance to equalize when Jose Casio pitched a crosscourt pass too strong for teammate James Hudencial, leading to a turnover and another charity for San Sebastian.