Mark Isip of Barako (light) vs Sol Mercado of Global port (dark).
MANILA, Philippines — Outmatching Globalport’s firepower, Barako Bull pulled away in the payoff period for a 108-95 victory Sunday in the 2013 PLDT MyDSL PBA Philippine Cup at the Mall of Asia Arena.
After exchanging small leads in the third quarter, the Energy started hitting their mark and turned a 77-all tie to a 90-81 lead to start the payoff period, which they would never relinquish.
A spirited finishing from Barako Bull, led by Denok Miranda, sealed their fourth win against seven losses as the Batang Pier, pulling within 91-87, tried but failed to mount a rally.
“I’m happy they responded. It was a must win,” said head coach Bong Ramos, who was thrilled to end the year with a convincing victory.
“I told them after our heartbreaking loss to Rain or Shine that we have to approach the New Year with a win, let’s end 2013 with a bang.”
Miranda, who was in the injured list a few games ago, led the Energy with 19 points, six rebounds and five assists while five more others wound up with double-digit scoring output.
The ever-energetic Dorian Peña added 15 points and 10 rebounds to lead his team on the boards, while Mick Pennisi added 14 points.
The Energy advanced just a shade behind Globalport, which dropped to 4-6, in the standings, though they have yet to establish consistency.
Globalport, meanwhile, slid to its third straight setback even with another powerful performance from Jay Washington, who finished with a game-best 30 points.
Terrence Romeo and Sol Mercado added 16 and 12 points, but the three of them were only limited to eight points combined in the payoff period.
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