PSL: Batang Tiaong escapes Gumaca's upset bid

The Mapua-bannered Batang Tiaong squad escaped a Gumaca upset. FilOil EcoOil Sports (file photo)

By Ivan Saldajeno

TIAONG—Batang Tiaong successfully defended its homecourt despite an early giant-slaying attempt from Gumaca with a 70-58 win in the nightcap of the PSL D2 Super Cup opening day festivities at the Tiaong Convention Center.

Batang Tiaong, represented by the NCAA's Mapua Cardinals, found itself on the verge of getting stunned as they were just up two, 30-28, at halftime.

The home squad, however, erupted for 29 points in the third quarter, almost matching their entire first-half output, to open a 59-42 lead entering the fourth.

Batang Tiaong somehow slowed down a bit anew in the fourth quarter, but the Kuyas could not catch up anymore.

Kobe Dalisay led Batang Tiaong-Mapua with 17 points on four triples, three rebounds, one assist, and two steals, while Clint Escamis added 11 points, three rebounds, two assists, one steal, and two blocks off the bench.

Johnlord Balo led Gumaca with 17 points, four rebounds, and one assist.

Follow him on Twitter: @IvanSaldajeno