The Meralco Bolts leaned on the clutch shotmaking of rookie Alvin Pasaol as they repulsed the Alaska Aces, 89-80, in the 2021 PBA Philippine Cup on Saturday at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig.

Pasaol, the former University of the East and 3x3 basketball star, came off the bench and gave Meralco some much-needed offense as he scored 11 of his 13 points in the fourth quarter. Every single basket was crucial as it helped stave off Alaska’s comeback attempt from a huge 16-point deficit.

Nard Pinto led Meralco in scoring with 16 points while Chris Newsome had a double-double of 14 points and 11 rebounds. Raymond Almazan also chipped in 12 points and eight boards as Meralco improved to 4-1 (win-loss) for the season.

Alaska, which dropped to 2-3, for 20 points from Gab Banal and 16 markers from Maverick Ahanmisi. (JNP)