Guiao rues ‘disappointing’ start to season as NLEX’s campaign ends

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MANILA, Philippines — NLEX ended its season on a winning note, rolling past Terrafirma, 127-101, in the PBA Philippine Cup Wednesday at AUF Sports Arena & Cultural Center in Angeles, Pampanga.

The Road Warriors made quick work of the Dyip thanks to a blistering third quarter where they unleashed 42 points for a 97-71 lead heading into the final frame.

NLEX finished the conference winning four of its last five games but its late surge was still not enough to propel itself into the playoffs.

“The first half of our elimination round was disappointing. We’ve done well in the second half that’s when we started winning,” said NLEX head coach Yeng Guiao.

“We just fell short. If only we have a few more games left. First three or four games were really bad,” Guiao lamented.

Kiefer Ravena powered the Road Warriors with 23 points on 9-of-13 shooting from the field on top of five rebound and four assists.

Raul Soyud, who has been one of the few bright spots for NLEX, added 16 points, five rebounds and five assists.

Ageless big man Asi Taulava played close to 15 minutes and had 11 points in what could be his final game in the PBA.

The 47-year-old Taulava wrapped up his 21st season in the PBA.

“I don’t know, I don’t know. I’m not gonna make any comments about that,” Taulava said on retirement.
CJ Perez had 27 points and 10 rebounds for Terrafirma, who wrapped up its campaign at 1-10.