Wright blasts off as Phoenix overwhelms Meralco in Robinson's debut

Matt Wright exploded for 36 points in Phoenix's huge win over Meralco. PBA Images

By Ivan Saldajeno

MANILA--While everyone awaits the return of Calvin Abueva, Phoenix unleashed its inner beast in Topex Robinson's first game as interim head coach.

The Fuel Masters sizzled in their PBA season debut, romping the Meralco Bolts, 116-98, on Monday night at the Angeles University Foundation Sports and Cultural Center.

Despite a solid start from Meralco that even saw the team leading by as much as seven, 16-9, midway through the first quarter, Phoenix took control of the game from thereon, closing the opening frame on a 16-5 run to take a 25-21 lead before pulling away for good in the third quarter with a 39-point blast.

Matt Wright erupted for 36 points on 11-of-23 shooting with four rebounds, six assists, and one steal for the Fuel Masters.

Jason Perkins and Justin Chua each added 17 points as their team dished out 30 dimes in total.

Reynel Hugnatan turned back time with a vintage performance of 16 points on 6-of-7 field goals, two rebounds, and one block for Meralco.

The scores:

Phoenix 116 -- Wright 36, Perkins 17, Chua 17, Garcia 14, Intal 7, Napoles 6, Jazul 5, Rios 4, Marcelo 4, Heruela 3, Reyes 3, Gamboa 0

Meralco 98 -- Hugnatan 16, Newsome 12, Quinto 11, Maliksi 11, Salva 10, Hodge 9, Jose 8, Amer 7, Black 6, Pinto 4, Faundo 2, Caram 2, Jackson 0

Quarterscores: 25-21, 53-41, 92-63, 116-98

Follow him on Twitter: @IvanSaldajeno_