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The Cebuana Lhuillier Gems preserved their winning streak as they head for the Christmas break.
The Gems needed just 20 minutes to put away the overmatched Café France for their fifth straight win — a lopsided 93-66 victory – on Thursday in the PBA D-League Aspirants’ Cup at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City.
Vic Manuel tallied 16 points ,Terrence Romeo had 15 and Jai Reyes added 13 for the Gems, who improved to 8-1 (win-loss) record and galvanized their chances for an outright passage in the semi-final.
“For us to be in this position and considering that we have 11 new players is already an achievement for us. But of course, our focus now is our upcoming game against NLEX on Jan.12. We have to win that game just in case Freego Jeans sweeps its remaining assignment,” said Cebuana Lhuillier coach Luigi Trillo.
Cebuana Lhuillier wraps up its elimination round campaign against NLEX (5-1) on Jan 12, needing a victory to avoid possible complications that could jeopardized their bid.
Trillo said he will give his troops an 11-day break to celebrate the Christmas Holidays. They will resume practice on Dec. 26.
The Gems were obviously aware of how crucial the match was. They were on the same page, displayed tremendous urgency and kept their focus the entire game, slowing down a bit only in the third quarter but with the game already secured.
After posting a 22-14 advantage in the opening quarter, the Gems imposed their will in the second period by holding the Bakers to just four points on 2 of 18 shooting.
Emotions ran high in the closing seconds, with Cebuana’s Bryan Cruz ejected of the game for punching Johnny Jasmin during a rebound play.
Mon Mabayo poured 23 points to show the way for Café France, which picked up its second straight loss and fifth in seven games.
The scores:
Cebuana Lhuillier 93 – Manuel 16, Romeo 15, Reyes 13, Taha 10, Cruz 7, Almazan 6, Atkins 6, Jeffries 6, Mangahas 5, Hayes 4, Eximiniuano 3, Celeda 2, Llagas 0.
Cafe France 66 – Mabayo 23, Orbeta 13, Parala 7, Jasmin 6, Lucernas 5, Viernes 4, Alquisalas 4, Montilla 3, Dumapig 0, Abundo 0, Lamosa 0, Magbitang 0.
Quarters: 22-14; 46-18; 67-46; 93-66
Source: Dave Corros, PBA D-League
