MANILA, Philippines – Meralco turned the lights out on Powerade’s campaign, 94-86, Wednesday night to complete the semifinals cast in the PBA Governors’ Cup at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
Import Mario West and Mac Cardona combined for 50 points for the Bolts.
Gary David, who missed the last three quarters of the Tigers win over Barako Bull Tuesday night due to a foot injury, made up for lost time and had 22 points, 15 of which came in the first period.
The Bolts looked well on their way to an easy win as they led by 13, 76-63, on a rare four-point play by Mark Macapagal in the opening minutes of the fourth period.
Meralco though, saw its lead dwindle down to four, 90-86, on a basket by Omar Sneed.
But back-to-back baskets by West and Cardona finally put the Tigers away.
West finished with 26 points while Cardona had 24.
Reynel Hugnatan added 14 points and the other veteran banger Asi Taulava collected six points, 12 rebounds, four steals and three blocks.
Powerade swingman Josh Vanlandingham, who came through with 18 points on four-of-eight shooting from three last night, failed to score a single point.
JV Casio, Sean Anthony and Rey Guevarra who had 10 points each the last time out, failed to hit double-digit scoring.