Alaska holds off Meralco in game 1 of their quarterfinals series

Cliff Hodge vs Mark Barracael. PBA IMAGES/Nuki Sabio

MANILA, Philippines—Alaska weathered a late storm by Meralco, 90-84, Wednesday for a 1-0 lead in their best-of-three quarterfinals series in the 38th PBA Philippine Cup at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Cyrus Baguio topscored for the Aces, who led by as many as 20 points, with 26 points on top of eight rebounds.

“I told them at the half the game wasn’t over,” said Alaska head coach Luigi Trillo. “It’s good we held on and played to our strengths.”

Alaska held on despite losing Calvin Abueva early after fouling out with still 9:46 left.

Gabby Espinas added 19 points while Sol Mercado paced the Bolts, who pulled to within six, 82-88, with 22 points.