MPBL: Quezon City rebounds, thwarts Iloilo comeback

Quezon City Capitals. MPBL Photo

ANGELES CITY – Quezon City survived a furious fightback from Iloilo for an 84-80 victory last Saturday night in the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League Lakan Season at Angeles University Foundation Gym here.

Joco Tayongtong finished with 20 points while Mon Mabayo contributed 12 points, including a cushion basket with 1:23 remaining as the Capitals bounced back from a defeat to Valenzuela last Monday.

The Capitals were cruising after a three pointer from former Ateneo standout Zags Gonzaga pushed their lead to 80-63 with five minutes remaining.

But the Royals, who were coming off a stunning upset of Bataan last Monday, battled back with a 13-0 run capped by John Mahari’s three point play with 1:45 left. After Mabayo extended the lead to six, the Royals refused to letup and Rich Escoto made it a two-point game with 21 seconds remaining.

Clark Derige was fouled as Quezon City milked the clock and the former University of the East Warrior sank both foul shots for the final count.

The Capitals evened their record to 2-2, while the Royals suffered their first loss in three games.