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Meralco completes huge comeback to spoil start of Magnolia's Govs Cup title defense

Chris Newsome helped the Bolts complete a comeback against the Hotshots. PBA Media Group
By Ivan Saldajeno

QUEZON CITY--Meralco pulled off a big comeback in the second half and deposed Magnolia, 98-92, at the start of their respective stints in the PBA Governors' Cup at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Saturday night.

Down by as much as 16 in the second quarter, the Bolts exploded in the third, eventually forcing a 75-all tie to start the fourth.

The Hotshots seemed to have restored order after going on an 11-2 run to take an 86-77 advantage with 9:21 to play.

However, Meralco sizzled anew and finished the game on a 12-0 run to steal the win.

Chris Newsome put up a double-double of 22 points and 10 rebounds with three assists, one steal, and one block for the Bolts.

Resident import Allen Durham also had a double-double with 21 points and 14 rebounds and even came close to a triple-double with eight assists alongside one steal and one block.

In his best game as a Bolt, Raymond Almazan chipped in 19 markers, 13 boards, two dimes, and one block.

Romeo Travis made 22 points, nine rebounds, four assists, two steals, and three blocks for the Hotshots, whose title defense was off to a bad start.

Paul Lee added 20 points, three rebounds, and one assist.

Ian Sangalang put up a double-double of 11 markers and 11 caroms with two dimes and one block.

Follow him on Twitter: @IvanSaldajeno