Alab PH averts collapse, burns Singapore

Photo from ASEAN Basketball League Facebook/Onvisa Thewphaingarm

BIÑAN, Laguna—The worrying trend of losing leads in the final period continued for Alab Pilipinas, but the Filipinos once again showed grit down the stretch as they finally overcame the league-leading Singapore Slingers Friday in the ASEAN asketball League.

“We’ll take this win, but sooner or later, we have to learn to play consistently otherwise we can’t contend for the title,” said Ronald “Mac” Cuan after Alab slipped past the Slingers, 74-72, for their first win in three meetings against the Singaporeans this season at Alonte Sports Arena here.

“It’s always the same story for us—building a good lead for three periods before allowing the opponents to come back. We’re just fortunate we got away with this [win].”

Alab averted another late collapse as it escaped with its fourth win in six games.

It was the start of a tough stretch for the Filipinos, who flew to Kuala Lumpur Saturday for a clash with the Westsports Malaysia Dragons Sunday.

“We’ll just get as much sleep as possible,” said Ray Parks. “We’re still learning as a team. We have a talented team and it’s all about embracing our roles for now.”