Aces survive Beermen, take 2-0 lead

MANILA, Philippines -- The Alaska Aces dodged a bullet when they survived the San Miguel Beermen, 83-80, in a riveting Game 2 that could have gone either way.

Vic Manuel made up for a crucial turnover coming up with a huge block on Yancy de Ocampo's game-winning attempt and then drained two free throws on the other end to seal the victory for the Aces, who are now halfway through a potential 15th PBA championship.

Manuel finished with 18 points, seven rebounds and two shot blocks in a second straight solid effort against the Beermen, who missed their prized big man June Mar Fajardo again.

Alex Cabagnot hit 23 points, including 14 in the second half, leading the Beermen's second half fightback that saw them hold the lead for 1:30 in the fourth quarter. The Aces though played with more poise down the stretch.