UNHERALDED Cedric Ablaza exploded for 25 points to propel a shorthanded Foton squad past Sta. Lucia, 86-72, Wednesday in the PCBL Chairman’s Cup at Marikina Sports Center.
Ablaza did most of the damage in the second half, where the Toplander pulled away for their fourth victory in eight outings.
Jumbo Plastic also improved to 4-4 after snapping a two-game slide at the expense of Byaheng SCTEX, 68-60.
The Linoleum Giants got big games from the backcourt duo of Jeff Viernes and James Martinez who combined for 31 points.
Jumbo Plastic struck hardest in the middle quarters, building a 62-51 edge heading into the final period on its way to pinning a third straight defeat on SCTEX. Cedelf P. Tupas
The scores:
First Game
FOTON 86—Ablaza 25, Gomez 21, Rivera 14, Nacpil 13, Moraga 8, Ouattara 5, Penaflor 0, Mallari 0.
STA. LUCIA 72—Bautista 20, Gabriel 11, Escosio 10, Eze 9, Cawaling 9, Javelona 5, Ilagan 3, Romero 2, Jamito 2, Camasura 1, Vidal 0, Castanarez 0.
Quarters: 16-15, 34-33, 66-55, 86-72
Second Game
JUMBO PLASTIC 68—Martinez 18, Viernes 13, Eguilos 8, Siruma 8, Bitoon 7, Taganas 5, Arellano 3, Santos 2, Ibay 2, Arafat 2.
BIYAHENG SCTEX 60—Sumalinog 17, Akomo 15, Raymundo 6, Reyes 6, del Rosario 4, Hermida 4, Villarias 3, Pangilinan 3, Batino 2, Susaya 0, Vitug 0.
Quarters: 17-17, 34-28, 52-41, 68-60