CEBU, Philippines – Megabond literally had to pass through the wringer before fending off the equally-tough Dorma by the narrowest of margins, 53-52, in the opener of their best-of-three championship series in the Architects + Engineers Basketball Association's 1st Coprorate Cup at the University of San Carlos-Main gym.
Trailing by five after the first period, 11-16, Megabond bounced back in succeeding quarter to forge a 24-deadlock at halftime, then survived a nip and tuck battle against Dorma until the closing seconds of the contest to pull off a cliffhanger.
Ed Macasling topscored for Megabond with 23 points on top of four rebounds and three assists.
Loreneil Tequin had 20 points, nine rebounds, four steals, three assists and two blocks, but his all-around show proved futile for Dorma. They hope to live and fight for another day as they take on Megabond in Game 2 this Saturday.
Meanwhile, Fenestram settled for third place honors after winning by forfeiture over CMI.— EBV (FREEMAN)