MANILA, Philippines - Philippine National Police ended Judiciary’s five-game run with an 87-84 victory in the second round of the third UNTV Cup at the Ynares Sports Center in Pasic City last Sunday.
Playmaker Julius Criste fired 12 points and made three steals and had two assists for the PNP Responders, who trailed majority of the contest.
After the win, their fourth against a loss, PNP coach Estong Ballesteros and Criste offered their come-from-behind win to their 44 comrades who were killed in Maguindanao last week following a clash with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).
“We were motivated to play well because we are dedicating our game to our 44 comrades who were killed in Maguindanao,” said Criste.
The Magis had the chance to send the game into overtime but former PBA players Don Camaso and Ariel Capus bungled their respective open three-point shots in the last 16 seconds, enabling the Responders to escape with the win.