MANILA, Philippines - Powerade, behind key runs in the second and fourth quarters, snapped a five-game losing streak dating back to last conference as it rolled past Air21, 109-91, in the PBA Governors Cup at the Araneta Coliseum last night.
The Tigers seized control, 47-36, on a searing 27-8 attack in the second period and completed the emphatic win on a 21-4 closing romp.
“The team had a simple agreement that we’ll not think about the technical aspect of the game. We agreed to push ourselves to the limit to have our chance to win,” said Powerade coach Bo Perasol
Fil-Am rookie forward Sean Anthony poured in 13 of his 21 points in the final period leading Powerade in a decisive endgame assault that carried the team to only their second win in their last 10 games.
“My job is to make hustle plays and help everybody get on the same page. I think we’re able to come together in this game,” said Anthony after dishing out his best game since scoring 29 points in their last game in the Philippine Cup.
Chris Porter churned out 22 points and 13 rebounds and guards Celino Cruz and Jai Reyes had huge contributions as the Tigers nailed their first win in three starts in the season-ending tourney.
The Express remained winless in three games as import Alpha Bangura struggled for only 10 points and the whole team sagged and collapsed at the finish.
Ahead by only a point at 88-87, the Tigers won the game pulling away on a 21-4 tear in the last three minutes of the game.
The Express lost their bearing after a couple of bad breaks, including an Elmer Espiritu basket that was nullified by the referees.
In frustration, Danny Seigle committed a fragrant infraction, leading to his ejection with 2:03 left to play.
Reyes nailed the two gift shots then buried a triple in the ensuing play as the Tigers broke away for good at 102-89.
After slowing down in the middle quarters, the Express came back to life, catching the Tigers at 73-all on a run capped by a KG Canaleta triple.
Behind a dizzying 27-6 run earlier, the Tigers erased an eight-point deficit and erected an 11-point lead, 45-34, in the second quarter.
The Tigers shrugged off a listless start and went on a rampage in the second canto to gain a 52-47 cushion at the half.
Jason Forte and Sonny Thoss dished out solid games throughout while LA Tenorio got his game going in the payoff period as Alaska Milk also broke into the win-column, beating B-Meg, 107-102, in a tough seesaw battle in the nightcap.
“Obviously, we made adjustments from the last two games. We go small with Jason (Forte) playing at 4 spot, and it allows us to play three guards. We have to stay with that until we get the feel of what we’re doing,” said Alaska coach Tim Cone.
“Desperate times require desperate measures. We’re doing that at this point,” Cone added as they shied away a little from their triangle offense.