Bolts bank on big 3rd-period run to beat Mixers

Jared Dillinger of Meralco (light) vs Mark Barroca of San Mig (dark). PBA IMAGE by Nuki Sabio

MANILA, Philippines—Meralco rode on a telling run to start the third quarter and sustained their form in the fourth period to beat San Mig Coffee, 88-78, in the 2014 PBA Commissioner’s Cup Monday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Darnell Jackson bullied his way to 31 points and 18 rebounds while also getting ample local support as the Bolts climbed to fourth place in the standings at 5-4.

“We wanted to put our spirit to the test against a champion team and we were rewarded with a victory primarily because of the effort we rendered,” Meralco head coach Ryan Gregorio said. “Just like I told my players we want to control our destiny.”

And following an impressive win over the Mixers, who were without Marc Pingris and Justin Melton due to injuries, the Bolts found themselves right where they wanted to be.

Meralco rose to fourth and more importantly assured itself of a comfortable spot in the playoffs.

Gary David and Jared Dillinger scored 21 and 18 points, respectively as both keyed in an 18-2 run in the third period that got Meralco a 57-43 lead.

The Mixers pulled to within six in the fourth quarter before the Bolts went on another surge this time an 11-3 blast to get their lead back to 14, 77-63, capped by a one-handed throwdown by Jackson off a lob pass from David.

“For today’s game it was fantastic to have an import like Darnell. He’s really a high-caliber import and we’re happy to have him on board.”

James Mays tried to tow San Mig Coffee but his 33 points and 11 rebounds weren’t enough as the Mixers dropped to 4-4.