Painters top Spinners for semis berth

Rain or Shine beat Magnolia Ice Cream in a game that meant so much for both teams, 65-60, yesterday to clinch a semis berth in the 2006 PBL Unity Cup at the Olivarez Sports Center in Parañaque.

The Elasto Painters stood to the challenge to hold off the Spinners and claim the win that mattered most as they finally slew the ghost of their heartbreaking finals series defeat to their arch rivals last February.

Big baskets from Gilbert Malabanan, Eugene Tan and Jay-R Reyes and a solid defensive stance in the clutch helped carry the Painters to the victory.

"It was sweet, at least we exacted revenge over Magnolia," said coach Leo Austria. "Finally, the boys realized how strong they are if they can only put their focus on the game."

In the second game, Harbour Centre turned to Joseph Yeo in the final half to beat No. 3 qualifier Granny Goose Tortillos, 59-51, and force a rubber match for the fourth and last semis berth.

After dismal shooting in the first two quarters, Yeo exploded for 11 in the third and added five in the fourth as the Port Masters repulsed the Snackmasters.

"We’ll go for the win tomorrow. Overall, our defensive effort made the difference," said coach Jorge Gallent. "Joseph played superbly in the second half. If he can dish out that kind of game, we have a good chance."

The Elasto Painters will face No. 1 seed Toyota Otis in the semis — a best-of-5 affair — starting Tuesday next week.