BY MEG SIOZON
PASIG CITY – Centro Escolar University Scorpions got their groove back after scourging Gamboa Coffee Mix, 100-to-96, in the 2017 PBA D-League Foundation Cup at Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig on Monday.
The Scorpions improved their odds in the playoffs lifting their record with 5 wins and 3 losses.
Despite the absence of Congolese center Rodrigue Ebondo in the roster who is recuperating from pneumonia, the school-based dribblers proved to be a force in the hardcourt as Rich Guinitaran captained the Scorpions dropping-off 6 of 10 shots in the three-point field with his 24 markers.
“Credit to the boys especially to our big men. They really stepped-up in this game. Talagang binigay nila ang best nila para makatulong sa team,” CEU Head Coach Yong Garcia said.
After a scanty first period, 17-30, Art Patrick Aquino boosted CEU’s attack in the third frame by releasing 14 points on a perfect shooting from the field, to steer the team’s biggest comeback, 83-66. Aquino finishes with 18 points, 4 rebounds and 3 assists in the win.
The veteran Coffee Lovers tried to stay in the game as they gradually moved back to tie the score, 88-88, 3:05 remaining in the final period. However, their efforts did not match the Scorpions’ determination as they fought hard for their victory.
Playing coach Leo Avenido blazed 9 triples for a total output of 28 points, while Mike Parala added 17 points in their seven-game losing skid.
The Scores:
CENTRO ESCOLAR (100) – Guinitaran 24, Aquino 18, Wamar 16, Casino 14, Cruz 10, Uri 8, Fuentes 6, Saber 2, Baconcon 2, Jeruta 0, Manlangit 0, Intic 0, Arim 0.
GAMBOA COFFEE MIX (96) – Avenido 28, Parala 17, Cawaling 13, Padilla 11, Acuna 11, Montuano 10, Vidal 3, Acibar 2, Knuttel 1, Dadjilul 0, Arellano 0.
Period Scores: 17-30, 45-47, 83-66, 100-96.
