Gary David's hands catch fire anew as Meralco downs Alaska
Resurgent Meralco seemed to have found its groove in this critical juncture. The same, however, cannot be said of struggling Alaska.
On a night retiring Alaska governor Joaqui Trillo was honored for his 25 years of service to the franchise, the Bolts got off to a strong start then came through with a decisive surge in the third canto to pull away from the Aces Friday night 74-65 and boost their quarterfinals bid in the PLDT myDSL-PBA Philippine Cup at the Smart-Araneta Coliseum.
Riding high on a morale-boosting 92-88 overtime victory against Air21 last Saturday, Meralco jumped the gun on the reeling Alaska before leaning on the likes of Gary David, Jared Dillinger and John Wilson in its pivotal 17-5 run in the penultimate quarter to seize control for good.
David, who torched the Express with 34 points, buried 17 of his game-high 24 markers while five other teammates, including Dillinger, added at least seven points as the Bolts improved to 5-7, gaining a share of the fifth spot with Barako Bull.
Three Aces, led by JVee Casio's 15 markers, scored in double-figures but they still failed to keep in step with the Bolts after tying the game at 40-apiece, resulting in their second consecutive setback and eighth overall against four wins while moving down to the ninth spot, on the verge of a stunning elimination.
Trillo, who joined Alaska as team manager way back in 1989, was presented with a plaque of appreciation at halftime with his team down by eight. The emotional ceremony seemed to energize the Aces, who opened the second half with seven unanswered points to come to within one.
The Main Man: Picking up from where he left off the last time out, Gary David delivered enough goods anew for Meralco.
The many-time scoring champion continued his offensive brilliance as led all scorers with 24 points, including 10 in the third canto where the Bolts broke away from 40-all count and cruised to a virtual romp.
Aside from his offensive damage, David also added seven rebounds and five assists.
Honorable Mentions: Jared Dillinger filled up the playmaking shoes left by injured guard Mike Cortez with ease anew, accounting for a game-best seven dimes plus 10 points and two blocks.
The versatile wingman also figured in a heated collision with Alaska forward Calvin Abueva early in the fourth canto but made sure to have the last laugh.
Also giving the Bolts ample support were reserves Cliff Hodge and John Wilson, who combined for 17 points, seven rebounds and three blocks.
Game Turning Point: After the Aces moved within two following a Calvin Abueva basket, the Bolts responded with aplomb, scoring 17 of the next 22 points to build a considerable 65-51 cushion going to the final canto.
They Said It:
Meralco coach Ryan Gregorio: “I told them to be ready for war. It’s not going to be easy against Alaska because they are fighting for survival just like us."
Meralco forward Jared Dillinger: "My teammates are making it (playmaking job) easy for me. We have some guys out so we really need to step up. I'm just doing whatever it takes to get the win. I just told him (Calvin Abueva) to respect the game. It's just an normal plau for two players going foe the leather."
The scores:
Meralco (74) - David 24, Dillinger 10, Hodge 10, Hugnatan 9, Salvacion 8, Wilson 7, Artadi 4, Ildefonso 2, Al-Hussaini 0, Guevarra 0.
Alaska (65) - Casio 15, Thoss 14, Espinas 13, Baguio 7, Abueva 6, Ramos 5, Dela Cruz 2, Jazul 2, Hontiveros 1, Exciminiano 0, Eman 0.
Quarterscores: 24-17, 40-32, 65-51, 74-65.
