Café France stays alive but playoff bid not in its hands

Josan Nimes of Cafe France (light) vs Jacklord Arquero of Arellano-Air21 (dark). PBA D-LEAGUE IMAGE by Nuki Sabio

MANILA, Philippines – Café France remained in playoff contention following a 92-63 whipping of also-ran Arellano-Air21 in the 2014 PBA D-League Aspirants Cup Monday at the JCSGO Gym in Cubao.

With their backs against the wall, the Bakers played with a sense of desperation and it showed right from the get-go.

“We’re still at it. All we can do now is sit and wait. Our fortune is not in our hands but in case miracle happens, we’re ready for the next round,” said Café France coach Egay Macaraya.

“But I’m still pleased with what we have achieved this conference. Our record is a big improvement from the last conference. It only goes to show that Café France’s goal to develop new players is a success,” Macaraya added.

Café France can only wait and cheer for Cebuana Lhuillier when it faces Blackwater Sports, which currently holds the sixth and final quarterfinals slot.

The Gems are already out of contention, but with practically nothing to lose they can be a stiff challenge against the Elite on Tuesday.

Guard Rod Ebondo had a double-double with 18 points and 12 rebounds on top of four blocks while Mark Parala added 15 points for the Bakers, who closed out their elimination round campaign with an 8-5 record.

Café France went on a 16-0 run early behind and never trailed the rest of the way.

Joshua Webb and Rocky Acidre scored 14 points apiece for the Chiefs, who suffered their 11th straight setback and wound up the eliminations at 1-12.

Blackwater and Café France will end up with identical 8-5 marks should the Elite beat the Gems but the Bakers will be left out for a playoff spot with an inferior quotient.

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