Mariners zero in on finals berth

MANILA, Philippines - The Philippine Merchant Marine School Mariners relied on a stifling full-court pressing game to put away the La Salle-Dasmariñas Patriots, 84-65, Friday in the semifinals of the 19th National Capital Region Athletic Association (NCRAA) men’s basketball tournament at the Olivarez College gymnasium in Sucat, Parañaque.

Daon Reverente and Sany Trinidad spearheaded the efforts of the Mariners, who need to win again on Tuesday to earn a berth in the finals of this cagefest supported by Mikasa and Molten Balls, and Ani Agrinurture Inc.

Reverente shot 20 points, while Trinidad fired 14 points for the Mariners, who will be aiming for their first-ever stint in the championship round of the tournament.

The other berth in the finals is being disputed by the top- seeded Olivarez College Sea Lions and the Rizal Technological University Blue Thunder.

The Mariners took charge right away, taking a 13-8 advantage early in the first period. Jess Quilatan hit five points during a 13-4 blast, which handed the Mariners a 26-12 first quarter lead. Bryle Orog also started that Mariners’ breakaway with a triple, helping them establish a 14-point advantage at the end of the said quarter.

Trinidad and Reverente combined for 15 points in the next canto, allowing the Mariners to gain an 18-point, 48-30, halftime spread.

“Kontrolado namin ang game dahil sa full-court press namin. Sana magtuluy-tuloy na ito,” said Mariners coach Aldrin Morante.

Earlier, the RTU Lady Thunder posted their second consecutive win, turning back the La Salle-Dasmariñas Lady Patriots, 54-45, in women’s action.

Aysa Balmatero made 13 for the Lady Thunder, while Eunice Alipio chipped in 11.