Meralco rebuilds winning run after pipping Alaska

John Pinto showed his worth as a key Bolt against the Aces. PBA Images

By Ivan Saldajeno

MANILA—Meralco posted back-to-back wins again after defeating Alaska, 89-80, in the lone PBA Philippine Cup game on Saturday at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig.

The Bolts exerted their might in the fourth quarter as they quickly deposed the Aces' late comeback and pulled away within the last five minutes of the game.

John Pinto played as the unsung hero for Meralco, which moved up to 4-1 in the team standings, leading the team with 16 points on 7-of-12 shooting, four rebounds, and one assist.

Chris Newsome added 14 points, 11 rebounds, and six assists.

Alvin Pasaol played his best game so far in his rookie season, putting up 13 points, two rebounds, two steals, and one block off the bench.

Gab Banal made 20 points on 8-of-11 shooting, one rebound, one assist, and one steal off the bench to lead Alaska, which fell to 2-3.

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