PLE-PH splits Day 1 series vs. Australia

PLE is now 2-1 in the FIBA Esports Open 2. SBP (file photo)

By Ivan Saldajeno

MANILA--The Playbook Laus Esports-led Philippine squad got a 1-1 stalemate with Australia in their champion versus champion series to kick off their campaign in the FIBA Esports Open 2 on Saturday night.

PLE, the reigning Southeast Asian champion, felt the brunt of Australia, the Oceania champion in Season 1 but was grouped with PLE and Indonesia this time, in their first match.

Despite the Philippine team crawling to within three midway through the third quarter, crucial baskets from Benjamin Klobas and Max Ellwood helped Australia withstand the rally and eventually take a 70-53 win.

PLE bounced back in the rematch and clobbered Australia, 81-55, to get the split.

PLE waxed hot from long range even as the team open lanes inside for the dunks.

Sandwiched in between the two Philippines-Australia games was a 65-37 rout of the Philippines against Indonesia.

PLE is playing Indonesia again later Saturday.

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