Photo by Tristan Tamayo/ INQUIRER.net
NLEX put up a better fight on Friday, pulling off a 91-79 Game 4 victory over Magnolia to pull even at 2-2 in their 2018 PBA Philippine Cup semifinals series at Mall of Asia Arena.
Coming off a tight first half, the Road Warriors staged a killer 14-0 rampage to open the third frame and build a 16-point advantage, 55-39.
The Hotshots tried to storm back but Kiefer Ravena put the result beyond doubt with seven straight points in the final 3:13, including the dagger three with 1:42 remaining for the 91-77 lead.
Ravena led the Road Warriors with 20 points, five assists, and three rebounds off the bench.
The victory allowed Road Warriors to make the series a virtual best-of-three.
Game 5 is on Sunday at Ynares Center in Antipolo.
“After back-to-back wins by Magnolia, we felt that this was a big game for us — a do-or die. A 1-3 series deficit would have been a foregone conclusion especially when you’re facing Magnolia,” said coach Yeng Guiao. “But we had that sense of urgency tonight. It’s rare that we get lucky because our shots went in just like how their shots went in back in Game 3.”
NLEX shot a sky-high 52-percent from the field and went 10-of-26 from threes.
Kevin Alas formed a potent combo with Ravena and registered 13 markers, six boards, and five dimes.
The Road Warriors’ veterans also did their part, with JR Quiñahan adding 14 points, four rebounds, and three assists, while Larry Fonacier got 10 markers and five boards.
Guiao also commended the team’s defense, shutting down key contributors and forcing Magnolia to a measly 36-percent from the field.
“I hope that we can keep up with this defense for the rest of the series,” the seasoned mentor said.
Ian Sangalang paced the Hotshots with 15 points and 14 rebounds in the defeat, while Mark Barroca and Paul Lee were both limited to 11 markers each.
The Scores:
NLEX 91 — Ravena 20, Quiñahan 14, Alas 13, Fonacier 10, Baguio 9, Soyud 9, Rios 5, Tiongson 5, Mallari 4, Al-Hussaini 2, Miranda 0, Taulava 0.
MAGNOLIA 79 — Sangalang 15, Barroca 11, Lee 11, Jalalon 10, Dela Rosa 9, Ramos 9, Simon 6, Reavis 4, Gamalinda 2, Pascual 2, Brondial 0, Herndon 0, Melton 0, Mendoza 0.
Quarters: 25-20, 41-39, 69-59, 91-79.
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