Skippers foil Jawbreakers in DL opener

MANILA, Philippines — Marinerong Pilipino hung tough in the clutch as it withstood Zark’s Burgers-Lyceum’s fiery fightback to hack 94-92 decision at the start of the PBA D-League Aspirants’ Cup at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig yesterday.

Renzo Subido sizzled with 20 points for the Skippers, including four free throws that finally put away the Jawbreakers, who battled back from 17 points down in the third period to within, 85-87.

Abu Tratter came off the bench and scored four points in the fourth while UE top gun Alvin Pasaol also checked back in to help stave off the Jawbreakers’ last ditch rally anchored on CJ Perez.

Pasaol also finished with four points.

“We all know that Zark’s Burgers-LPU will fight until the end. Good thing the players we used down the stretch delivered. Tratter and Pasaol have only been with us early this month so they are still learning the system. But they were able to deliver and step up,” said Marinerong Pilipino coach Koy Banal.

Rian Ayonayon came through with 15 points, Philip Paredes and Gab Banal, who combined in Marinerong Pilipino’s second quarter breakaway, had 14 each and Billy Robles added 10 for the Skippers.

Jaycee Marcelino turned in 20 points, Perez chalked up 19 markers, including nine that sparked their rally in the fourth. Mike Nzeusseu tallied 18 points while Jesper Ayaay had 11 markers for the Jawbreakers.