By Dugout Philippines
Meralco completed the image of the PBA Philippine Cup playoffs after trouncing GlobalPort, 82-70, in the nightcap of a rare tripleheader at the final day of the eliminations at the Cuneta Astrodome in Pasay City.
The win thus gave the Bolts the last twice-to-beat advantage come the first round of the playoffs beginning on Thursday.
Meralco looked to pull away from a close fight as the team opened a ten-point cushion, 35-25, with 4:38 left in the first half.
But GlobalPort answered with a 12-0 run to take a 37-35 lead early into the third period.
The Bolts clawed back and rebuilt a seven-point advantage, 49-42, later in the quarter.
But the Batang Pier responded again and retook the lead, 56-55, late in the third.
A Sean Anthony triple, however, ended the quarter, and Meralco went ahead, 58-56.
GlobalPort remained in step with Meralco for most of the fourth quarter.
But a John Wilson basket started the game-deciding 15-5 run by the Bolts to pull away for good.
Cliff Hodge led the Bolts with 15 points, nine rebounds, four assists, and two blocks.
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