By Adrian Flores
Baguio—Manila Southwoods marched to the crown without much challenge from Luisita in the final round at the close of the seniors’ tournament in the 72nd Fil-Am Men’s Invitational.
The rivals matched output of 106 that netted Southwoods 463 points and Luisita 452, ending another chapter of an exciting action that was last staged three years ago.
“My rookies delivered,” said Southwoods captain Freddie Mendoza, referring to Jun Plana and Manfred Guangko, who played the seniors’ event for the first time after being with the regular team for many years.
Plana, who has been in the Fil-Am for around 25 years now, was the top gunner for the Cavite-based squad in all four days. Yesterday, he ended with a 29 to emerge as the best scorer in Seniors I.
Judd Roy and Raul Muñoza each shot 26 and Gunagko added 25.
Luisita got 29 from Chino Raymundo, 28 from Rodel Mangulabnan, 26 from Benjie Sumulong and 23 from Dan Cruz.
“Marty (Ilagan) got his baptism of fire as a rookie. We gave it our best shot. We will come back stronger next year,” said non-playing skipper Jeric Hechanova.
The Alpha Phi Omega Golfers (107-379) captured the crown in the Am-Championship over Srixon-IMG (109-374) at the Camp John Hay Golf Club.
Dugong Bughaw (101-372), Manila Southwoods-2 (105-354) and Megafiber (94-353) completed the top 5.
