THE Bulldogs took down higher seeded John Dave Aznar Food Haus, 83-80, in the knockout semifinals of the City Hoops Basketball League Season 6 at the Talisay City College Sports Complex in Talisay City, Cebu on Sunday, Jan. 13.

The Bulldogs used a strong first half to keep its opponent at bay before holding off a late comeback from John Dave Aznar to take the narrow three-point win and advance to the championships.

James Brian Gomez exploded with 33 points, Lino Martel added 22 and Eugene Nacua poured in 11 for the Bulldogs, which opened the game with a 17-9 run in the first quarter before extending its lead to double digit at 39-29 at the half.

John Dave Aznar Food Haus made a final push in the fourth quarter but fell short.

Ken Sanchez canned in 29 points to lead all scorers for John Dave Aznar Food Haus, while teammates Zareygel Rosano handed 16 and Rod Dicdiquin contributed 14 in a losing effort.

In the other semifinals game, Talisay City Hall proved to be too much for the Talisay City District Hospital (TDH) Medicals with a rousing 108-83 win.

Talisay City Hall had all its guns clicking as six players finished in double figures led by Deej Villanueva’s 19 points. Jovan Tabay and Jaypher Ocañada each chipped in 16, Nino Obeso and Juntay Bardilas had 13, while Kevin Lozano added 10.

Medical’s Steven Geonzon scored 20 while Jendyll Yap added 14, Joey Catipay had 13 and Brigmor Barsilo contributed 10.

The Talisay City Hall and Bulldogs will play in the championship match on Jan 27. (RSC)