Davao Cocolife Tigers snatched an 88-82 win over the Pasig Pirates in the recent elimination round game of the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League Datu Cup held at the Marist Gym, Marikina City.
The Pirates were in control for almost three quarters behind the orchestration and outside shooting of Boyer Bautista, the perimeter conversions of ex-pro Jerwin Gaco and Mark Andaya’s dominant play inside the paint to keep the Tigers of team owner Claudine Bautista of Davao Occidental LGU backed by Cocolife president Elmo Nobleza FVP Joseph Ronquillo and AVP Rowena Asnan, at bay.
But the bomb squad of Davao Cocolife caught fire in the final quarter, led by former Philippine Basketball Association veteran Leo Najorda, who exploded beyond the arc with 5 triples, to go with one each by homegrown Joseph Terso and Louie Medalla to annihilate the Pirates for good and remain on top in the South Division (13-3) in the league, organized by Senator Manny Pacquiao.
“It’s a hard-earned victory for us. We struggled for almost three quarters, but our Tigers never gave up and got a big break from our outside snipers to stop the Pirates,” said Cocolife manager Ray Alao.
Tigers’ coach Don Dulay who enjoys being on top of team standings, is starting to focus his team in their mission of getting to finals and ultimately win the MPBL title.