Sunday, November 09, 2008 Air21 rallies to beat Rain or Shine, 106-103
LUCENA City—The Air 21 Express bounced back yesterday with a 106-103 victory over Rain or Shine in the 2008 KFC-PBA Philippine Cup at the Quezon Convention Center here.
Gary David starred in the Express’ fiery run down the stretch by scoring 10 of his 27 points in the pivotal quarter to secure their fourth win in nine matches.
David’s spirited play included two pressure-packed free throws with 15 seconds left that bailed the Express out of trouble after the relentless assault by the Elasto Painters until the buzzer.
Coach Bo Perasol said the triumph erased the stigma of their heartbreaking 129-130 double-overtime setback to San Miguel Beer last Nov. 5.
“We wanted this win very badly. This also helps us get over what could have been a won game for us last week. I admire the boys for their fighting heart. They really gave everything out tonight,” Perasol said.
Ranidel de Ocampo contributed 19 points, while Doug Kramer notched 13 points and 15 rebounds.
“They really played their hearts out tonight. They imposed their will on defense and refused to allow the big men (of Rain or Shine) to dominate the paint,” Perasol said.
Despite the loss, the Elasto Painters remain in solo second with a 5-4 slate.
Meanwhile, the Alaska Aces try to regain the solo leadership when they take on newly-resurgent Purefoods today in the resumption of the first round elimination at the Araneta Coliseum.
Alaska will suit up in the match fresh from its two-game winning streak, while last year’s runnerup Giants are seeking their third straight victory when they clash at 6:30 p.m.
Defending champion Sta. Lucia Realty and Red Bull, two teams locked in a three-way tie at fourth, part ways when they face each other in the first match at 4:00 p.m.
The Giants leaned on Chico Lañete’s buzzer-beater to beat Talk ‘N Text, 88-87, and secure their fourth win in 8 matches last Friday, a feat that elevated them to solo third, just a game away from solo second Rain or Shine (5-3). (FCC)
