Ginebra survives Meralco's fiery rally

MANILA, Philippines -- Vernon Macklin piled up 23 points despite 5-of-15 free throws and added 22 rebounds while Mark Caguioa contributed 21 points before limping out with two minutes left to play as Barangay Ginebra stretched its streak to three games and forced a four-way logjam at fifth with an 84-81 win over Meralco Friday night at the Big Dome. 

Ginebra built a huge lead early, enough to fend off Meralco’s endgame charge as the Kings tied the Bolts, the Air21 Express and the San Mig Coffee Mixers at 4-5.

The Scores: 

GINEBRA 84 - Macklin 23, Caguioa 21, Ellis 11, Labagala 8, Hatfield 7, Tenorio 6, Mamaril 3, Helterbrand 3, Baracael 2, Jensen 0, Wilson 0, Raymundo 0.

MERALCO 81 - Dawson 31, Hodge 18, Buenafe 8, Hugnatan 6, Salvacion 6, Ross 5, Cardona 5, Manuel 2, Vanlandingham 0, Timberlake 0, Reyes 0, Artadi 0.

Quarters: 22-10, 42-29, 64-57, 84-81.