Batangas City stays undefeated in MPBL play as Iloilo suffers 2nd half collapse

Mark Neil Cruz is all alone inside the lane for a dunk attempt. MPBL

By Ivan Saldajeno

MANILA—Batangas City took advantage of what could be one of the worst second-half performances the MPBL has ever seen and clobbered Iloilo at home, 78-55, on Monday night at the Batangas City Sports Coliseum.

The United Royals were actually still in the thick of the fight against the Athletics in the first half as the latter entered halftime just up by one, 41-40.

However, Batangas City held Iloilo to only 15 points in the second half—10 in the third quarter and just five in the fourth—to seal the win.

Rhaffy Octobre led the now 3-0 Athletics with 14 points, one assist, and four steals, while MJ Dela Virgen added 13 points, five rebounds, four assists, and one steal.

Jeckster Apinan put up a double-double of 10 points and 13 rebounds with three assists and four steals.

Genmar Bragais was the only United Royal who finished with double figures in scoring with 11 markers alongside two boards, three dimes, and two swipes as his team fell to 0-3.

Follow him on Twitter: @IvanSaldajeno