Meralco spoils Christian Standhardinger's career game, ties PBA PH Cup semis vs Ginebra

Allein Maliksi caught fire anew for Meralco. PBA Images

By Ivan Saldajeno

MANILA--Meralco found a way to prevail despite an explosion from Christian Standhardinger as they clobber Ginebra, 103-91, in Game 2 of their PBA Philippine Cup semifinals on Sunday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay.

The Bolts pulled away in the final 5:38 of the game, outscoring the Gin Kings, 15-4, after back-to-back baskets from Standhardinger drew Ginebra to just one, 88-87, with exactly six minutes left.

Allein Maliksi fired 25 points, one rebound, and one assist to lead Meralco, which tied its best-of-seven series against Ginebra at one game apiece.

Chris Newsome added 20 points, four rebounds, three assists, and one steal, while Cliff Hodge put up 13 points, 10 rebounds, three assists, and one block.

Standhardinger ended up with a career-high 41 points on 13-of-17 shooting with 11 rebounds, four assists, and one steal for Ginebra.

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