MBL knockout semis on

MANILA, Philippines - Parola Maritime takes on Manila-Hobe Bihon while Gerry’s Grill battles Secret Spices in a pair of knockout matches for the remaining two semis berths in the MBL Open basketball championship at the San Andres gym in Malate.

Parola, which finished third in the elims, and Manila-Hobe, which wound up sixth, clash in the 6 p.m. encounter with the winner advancing to the semis against No. 2 team 100plus Isotonic Sports Drink.

Gerry’s Grill and Secret Spices, which finished fourth and fifth, respectively, square off at 7:30 p.m. with the victor going up against top seed Star Group of Publications.

In the elims, Manila-Hobe defeated Parola, 83-80, last Aug. 27 while Gerry’s Grill subdued Secret Spices, 90-86, last Aug. 31.

Last Tuesday, 100plus defeated Gerry’s Grill, 67-57, to forge a three-way tie for second at 5-2 at the close of the elims of the tournament sponsored by Cebuana Lhuillier, Ironcon Builders, Dickies Underwear, PRC Couriers and WG Diner.

100plus, however, clinched the No. 2 seed with a higher quotient.

Star Group topped the elims with a 6-1 win-loss record.