Bolts shock Batang Pier
The Meralco Bolts remains in the Top Four spot as they beat the GlobalPort Batang Pier with a score of 100-93 in the quarterfinals round of the 2017 PBA Governor’s Cup held in Mall of Asia (MOA) Arena, Friday.
Player of the Game, Chris Newsome going up against Stanley Pringle. Photo by spin.ph
Chris Newsome led the Bolts with 28 points, 7 rebounds, and 5 assists.
Playing without their star player Terrence Romeo who had a flu, the Batang Pier were still able to show an exemplary performance and scared the Bolts at least in the first half of the game.
It was also an all-Filipino line-up for the GlobalPort because their last minute supposed-to-be import, Jamal Thomas, was over the height limit.
It looked like a close fight during the start of the game as there was a quick exchange of points seen in both teams.
Ranidel De Ocampo, who was traded to the Bolts, was spotted giving his best, and even launched a buzzer beater 3-point shot that left first quarter in favor of them, 25-20.
The Batang Pier was able to get the lead in the second quarter as they made a 9-0 run, and forced the Bolts to call for a timeout.
Newsome stopped Batang Pier’s domination and buried a three that led the Bolts in tying the game to 32-32.
The Bolts continued their rhythm and ended the first half with a 9-point lead, 51-42.
Sean Anthony opened the second half with a three for the Batang Pier to catch the lead and come close.
But the Bolts did not let the Batang Pier overcome them as they managed to take care of their lead as it swelled into 19 points.
During the fourth quarter, the Bolts dominated and was in complete control of the game with their consecutive points and great defense system.
With consecutive threes from Sean Anthony, the Batang Pier has come close but was not able to get the lead back.
The game ended in favor of the Bolts, 100-93.
Unfortunately, this is the last game for the GlobalPort who are ranked 8th.
On the other hand, the Meralco Bolts ranked 1st tying with the Ginebra Kings, and will be facing the San Miguel Beermen on Sunday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
