Jens Knuttel (dark/cafefrance) vs Reignier Macasaet PBA D-LEAGUE IMAGE / Nuki Sabio
MANILA, Philippines – Cafe France banked on a second-quarter surge to clobber Hog’s Breath Cafe 75-58 Monday in the PBA D-League Foundation Cup at the FilOil Flying V Arena in San Juan.
The Bakers, who hiked their record to 5-2, outscored the Razorbacks, 24-6, to turn a close 21-17 game to a one-sided affair, 45-23, and never looked back.
“Salamat naman naka-bounce back kami sa talo against NLEX,” said Cafe France head coach Edgar Macaraya, whose team improved its chances of clinching a top four finish at the end of eliminations. “Good thing maganda yung start but still kulang pa rin. I know Hog’s bagong team but if ever a contender and kalaban I hope makabawi pa din kami,” he said.
Mike Silungan continued his torrid shooting from downtown – nailing all of his three triples in the first half – en route to a 15-point outing.
“Naka-focus na kasi siya kasi tapos na school niya (Silungan),” Macaraya said.
Macaraya was also pleased with the acquisition of Moncrief Rogado, who was released by Informatics. Rogado immediately fit in with his new team with a game-high 17 points on five-of-10 shooting from deep.
Marion Magat added 14 points and nine rebounds while Michael Parala had seven points, 10 rebounds and two blocks.
Billy Robles paced Hog’s Breath, which slid to 1-6, with 16 points.