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SMB keeps playoff hopes alive with rout of Phoenix

Chris Standhardinger delivered a huge performance for the Beermen again. PBA Media Bureau

By Ivan Saldajeno

MANILA--San Miguel kept its hopes of making the PBA Governors' Cup quarterfinals alive on Friday night after blasting Phoenix, 117-100, at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay.

The Beermen outscored the Fuel Masters, 31-14, in the second quarter to turn the game around.

Phoenix still tried to put up a fight early in the third quarter, but SMB controlled the rest of the way to complete the blowout.

However, drama still ensued late in the game as Kevin Murphy was whistled for a Flagrant Foul Penalty 1 after appearing to have choked Calvin Abueva in a loose ball situation.

Chris Standhardinger led the Beermen, who moved out of their surprise slump and up to 3-4, with 29 points on 12-of-19 shooting, 14 rebounds, three assists, and two blocks.

Murphy and Marcio Lassiter each added 26 points.

Eugene Phelps made 37 points, 26 rebounds, six assists, four blocks, and one steal for the Fuel Masters, who fell to 6-3.

Follow him on Twitter: @IvanSaldajeno