Malacañang, MMDA fives boost semis bids

MANILA, Philippines — Malacañang Patriots outgunned AFP Cavaliers, 83-78, last Sunday to strengthen its drive for a semifinals seat in the UNTV Cup Season 2 at Ynares Sports Arena, Pasig.

Joseph Besa fired 20 points for the Patriots, who rallied from nine points down in the first half, 33-42, to prevail and rise to solo third spot with 5-2 record.

The Cavaliers absorbed their second straight setback and dropped to fourth with a 4-3 card.

Also sustaining its bid for a seat in the next round is MMDA Black Wolves which overwhelmed Senate Defenders, 87-71, for an even 3-3 card.

Peter John Villanueva paced the Black Wolves with 19 points and six steals while Jeff Sanders added 18 points and seven steals.

With the win, MMDA moved a game away from the Cavaliers for fourth spot. Defending champion Judiciary Magis took the second Final Four spot with a walkover win over House of Representatives Solons.

The Solons forfeited the game after showing up with just four players. It was the Magis’ sixth win in seven outings.

PNP Responders took the first semifinal seat with a 7-0 card.