By Ivan Saldajeno
MANILA—Rizal pulled off a huge surprise on Wednesday night after blasted Imus, 85-73, in the MPBL Datu Cup at the FilOil Flying V Centre in San Juan City.
The Crusaders, currently in last place in the Southern Division, turned on the jets in the first half, opening a 51-30 halftime lead, before holding off the now reeling Bandera.
Eric Dela Cuesta turned back time with an 18-point, six-rebound, seven-assist, and three-steal showing for Rizal, which moved up to 6-15, keeping its flickering playoff hopes alive.
Jerome Juanico put up an impressive all-around game of 14 points, seven rebounds, four assists, three steals, and three blocks.
Wilson Baltazar made 15 markers, seven boards, one dime, and one steal for Imus, which failed to tie GenSan for fourth place in the South and instead fell back below .500 at 9-10, dropping to sixth place in the Southern Division.
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