SCTEX nips Euro-Med; Foton strikes

MANILA, Philippines – Biyaheng SCTEX continued its surge in the PCBL Chairman’s Cup after outlasting Euro-Med, 70-67, for its fourth straight win over the weekend at the Marikina Sports Center.

It was the seventh win in 11 games for Biyaheng SCTEX, which forged a tie for second to third places with inaugural staging champion Jumbo Plastic in this tournament supported by Hahn Manila, During’s Barbeque and Restaurant, Spalding, Ambucore, LGR and Gerry’s Grill.

Dragged in an exciting finish, Biyaheng SCTEX banked on ex-pro Pamboy Raymundo and Oping Sumalinog for important baskets before putting away Euro-Med.

Raymundo and Sumalinog conspired in a short but telling 6-0 spurt that gave Biyaheng SCTEX a 67-63 lead with 1:30 left and the newest member of the league also got a big break when Euro-Med coach Yong Garcia was called for a technical foul for excessive complaining.

Trailing 68-63, Euro-Med went to former PBA guard Eloy Poligrates, who immediately delivered by burying a trey, to shove his team within striking distance. The Laboratory Experts got a big break on the defensive end when Sumalinog was called for a five-second inbound violation.

SCTEX coach Adonis Tierra and team manager Ronald Dulatre were called for a technical foul each, sending Poligrates for two free throws.

Earlier, Foton wrapped up its elimination round campaign with a 72-63 win over Supremo Lex.