Viva rips Blu, makes last trip to semis

Viva Mineral Water toughened up on defense in the fourth quarter as it outlasted Blu Star Power, 71-56, yesterday to gain the last slot in the Sunkist PBL Unity Cup semifinals at the Pasig Sports Center yesterday.

The Water Force held the Detergent Kings without a field goal and to only eight charities in the first nine minutes of the payoff period — a good defensive job that keyed the crucial win.

Dennis Miranda unleashed a monster game with 23 points including a buzzer beater from way, way out in the first quarter.

But while it was Miranda who started it all for the Water Force, it was Joel Co who delivered the big baskets for the Detergent Kings. Co made 11 points in the fourth quarter.

Viva claimed the last slot in the semis, joining John-O, Hapee Toothpaste and Montana Pawnshop.

"The boys wanted it so much and I think that’s the key," said Viva coach Coy Banal.

With Miranda leading the way, the Water Force took control early as it unleashed a vicious running game that saw them erecting a 42-27 lead at the break.

Blu Star made its move in the third canto as it put a stop to Viva’s running game with Domingo Hernandez, a rookie out of Lyceum, drilling in two straight triples to cut their deficit to only eight at 44-52.