Ferriols keeps Dazz in hunt

LUCENA CITY — It’s John Ferriols again.

Ferriols teamed up with Joel Dualan in a pivotal third quarter run as Dazz Dishwashing Liquid smashed Welcoat Paints, 62-49, yesterday to stay in the hunt for a twice-to-beat edge in the PBL Challenge Cup semifinals.

Playing before 8,000 spectators at the Quezon Province Convention Center here, Ferriols and Dualan, a PBA free agent, were also an intimidating presence in the shaded area as the two helped the Grease Busters limit the fancied Paint Masters to just six third quarter points that led to the rout.

The win thus pushed Dazz in a tie with Blu All Purpose at second place with a 7-4 record and the two clash tomorrow at the Pasig Sports Center in a knockout duel for the No. 2 spot and the twice-to-beat incentive.

Playing his second PBL game in five years, Ferriols, who led Dazz with 13 points and seven rebounds over LBC in Lipa City last week, held his own against top rookie PBA rookie prospects Romel Adducul and Eddie Laure with his post-up moves and defense.

Despite the loss, the Paint Masters remained atop the heap with a 9-2 slate and take on the winner of the LBC-ICTSI match in the semis with a twice-to-beat edge.

Earlier, ICTSI overpowered Sunkist, 99-69, to top the consolation group and arrange another no-tomorrow contest versus Group A No. 4 LBC Batangas (5-6) in Pasig City.

It was the Juicers’ 10th loss in 12 outings.