The third time proved to be the charm for the Unilab/Alaxan-Don Bosco Greywolves as they took Game One of their best-of-three series for third place against the Metro Gaisano-Cebu Institute of Technology (CIT) Wildcats, 74-71, in the Reinforced Partner's Cup on Tuesday at the Cebu Coliseum.The Greywolves remained defiant all-game long as they crawled all the way back from a 13-point deficit to finally defeat the Wildcats, who have been dominant against them all-tournament long. Donning the hero's cape for Don Bosco was crafty point guard Celso Coligado, who scored the go-ahead basket and two pressure packed free-throws to secure the game in their favor. Down by a point, 70-71, after CIT's Sherwin Abobo converted on a tough leaner in the lane, Coligado put the Greywolves back in the driver's seat with a slashing foray down the left flank for a left-handed layup. He then converted the last two points of his 15-point performance, the next trip down the floor to finally ice the game. Allen delos Santos led the way for Don Bosco with 21 points while Joseph Villaver provided significant numbers with 11 markers. The Greywolves also clamped down on the import of CIT, Jerry Jaca, who managed just 10 points, way off his 20-point average. The Wildcats were also hurt by the absence of former PBA player Gilbert Demape, who did not suit up because of a fever. BOX SCORES:
Unilab/Alaxan (74) Delos Santos 21, Coligado 15, Villaver 11, Aldave 8, Perturbos 8, Baring 3, Caballero 3, Enterina 3, Apura 2.
Metro Gaisano (71) Abobo 17, Jaca 10, Dela Cerna 9, Molero 8, Reyes 6, Montealto 5, Resilla 4, Capaning 3, Canete 2, Lopez 2. /Correspondent Jonas Panerio |
