By Ivan Saldajeno
MANILA--Marikina recovered from a sluggish second quarter and romped Mandaluyong in the second half for a 76-62 win in the MPBL Datu Cup at the Lagao Gymnasium in General Santos on Saturday night.
The Shoemasters appeared to be handing the El Tigre a sound beating after limiting them to just eight points in the first quarter.
However, Mandaluyong took control in the second period and took a 30-28 halftime advantage.
Marikina then erupted for 27 points in the third period for a 55-46 lead, and the team pulled away from there.
Jay-Ar Ng Sang put up 17 points, nine rebounds, three blocks, and one steal for the Shoemasters, who tied the Zamboanga Valientes for 10th place in the Southern Division at 6-10, a full game behind the GenSan Warriors, who are hosting the Navotas Clutch later Saturday.
Ryan Costelo made 15 points, seven rebounds, five assists, and one steal, while Ronald Roy chipped in 14 markers, three rebounds, three assists, and one steal.
Gerald Anderson finished with nine points, six rebounds, two assists, and one steal in his first game at his hometown of General Santos, albeit playing for Marikina.
Gian Abrigo made 16 markers, 11 rebounds, one assists, one steal, and two blocks for the El Tigre, who fell to a tie with the Valenzuela Classic for seventh place in the Northern Division at 7-10.
Follow him on Twitter: @IvanSaldajeno
.jpg)
