By Kim Dayos
SAN JUAN, MM--A last minute push from the Perpetual Help Altas proved to be the difference in their come-from-behind win against Mapua Cardinals, 82-79 at FilOil Flying V Arena on Tuesday.
Altas were down for three quarters but manages to squeeze in a victory behind Dagangon’s 16-point performance, none biggest than his back to back baskets to push the lead to a comfortable margin.
Season 90 MVP Earl Scottie Thompson had an unusual game, shooting well below his average but found a way to contribute and help lift Altas to take a solo lead atop the standings. He ended up with nine points, 12 rebounds, and 10 assists including several fiery passes that lead to conversions in crucial stretches of the game.
While the Nigerian recruit Bright Akhuetie finished the game with another monstrous performance, muscling his way to 24 points to lead all scorers. But it was the second year player Gab Dagangon who took over the last minute of the game, converting an undergoal stab to give them a precarious one-point lead, 80-79.
On the following possession, Nimes-led Cardinals forced their way inside, only to lose the ball to Akhuetie. Not wasting much time, Akhuetie fired a lead pass to Dagangon who converts a fast break layup which sealed the ball game, 82-79.
Nimes had an excellent game of his own, ended up with a near triple double performance, 16 points, nine assists, and eight rebounds. Oraeme and Isit had 15 and 13 markers respectively but Perps’ composure proved to be too much for Mapua to handle.
Box scores:
Perpetual Help 82–Akhuetie 24, Dagangon 16, Elopre 14, Thompson 9, Eze 7, Coronel 5, Oliveria 4, Dizon 2, Sadiwa 1, Ylagan 0, Tamayo 0, Bantayan 0, Gallardo 0, Cabiltes 0
Mapua 79–Nimes 16, Oraeme 15, Isit 13, Aguirre 12, Biteng 8, Stevens 4, Serrano 4, Raflores 4, Brana 2, Dela Rosa 1, Que 0, Menina 0, Layug 0
Quarterscores: 18-20, 35-39, 59-62, 82-79
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