Oguchi lights up as Meralco beats Talk ’N Text for 1st time

MANILA, Philippines—Champ Oguchi had his usual scoring night as Meralco finally hurdled the only team it hasn’t beaten, Talk ‘N Text, 105-99, Wednesday night in the 2012 PBA Governors’ Cup at the new-look Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City.

Oguchi pumped in 29 points, including a pull-up jumper that gave the Bolts a 102-94 lead with 44 ticks left.

“We had some anxious moments at the start but great towards the end. Champ (Oguchi) nailed big shots and Sol Mercado kept our boat afloat,” said Meralco head coach Ryan Gregorio, whose squad ended a six-game skid against Talk ‘N Text.

Sol Mercado chipped in with 24 points while Mark Cardona had 15.

“They’re probably without their five main players and we just wanted to make sure we find ways to win. We’re going to take this win any way we can,” added Gregorio.

The Tropang Texters played sans their three vital cogs of Jimmy Alapag, Jayson Castro and Ryan Reyes but still didn’t go down without a fight.

Paul Harris led TNT with 32 points and 13 rebounds.

“It’s nice to win against Talk ‘N Text. This is the first time we won against them wearing a Meralco jersey and I hope this won’t be the last,” said Gregorio.