Aces trip Energy for third straight win

Vic Manuel of Alaska (light) vs JC intal and Mark Isip of Barako (dark). Nuki Sabio/PBA

MANILA, Philippines — Alaska fueled its winning streak to three after tripping Barako Bull 78-71 Wednesday night in the 2014 PBA Commissioner’s Cup at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

The Aces couldn’t pull away, but managed to keep their distance from the Energy in the payoff period — thanks to the workmanlike effort from not only Rob Dozier but also from the locals.

Gabby Espinas and Calvin Abueva each scored six in the payoff period for the Aces while showcasing tremendous hustle on defense, especially on Barako Bull import Josh Dollard.

“It was a good defensive effort again. We have them at 71 points from their average of 91,” said head coach Luigi Trillo.

“I’m just proud of Gabby [Espinas] and Calvin [Abueva]. Mr. Uytengsu-type of work ethic. They really persevered in this game.”

Jvee Casio and Dozier also held it together for hot Alaska in the pivotal fourth quarter, where the Aces started with an 8-0 run for a 60-52 lead.

But with Dollard single-handedly towing his squad, Barako Bull never trailed by double digits and even came within 67-70 with under two minutes to play.

Casio then knocked down a tough fallaway jumper and the Aces pounced on a crucial turnover from Denok Miranda to put the Energy away.

It was a crucial win for the Aces, who settled fourth place with a 4-4 record with just two more games in this short elimination round.

“All games are important. If we lost the game, we could’ve been tied for 9th, but now were fourth. This was moment for truth game. We have to keep on winning,” Trillo said.

Alaska, meanwhile, sent Barako Bull crashing to its fifth setback which was good for second to the last in the standings.

Dollard finished with 26 points, 11 in the fourth quarter, and 16 boards but barely got anything from the Energy’s local unit as only Mick Pennisi wound up in double digits.

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