KCS-Mandaue routs Dumaguete, gets big boost heading to semis

CEBU, Philippines — Ping Exciminiano had a breakthrough performance of 16 points laced with four rebounds and three steals as the KCS Computer Specialist-Mandaue City ended their elimination round campaign with a 78-50 obliteration of the Dumaguete Warriors in the Chooks-to-Go Pilipinas Vismin Super Cup-Visayas leg yesterday at the Alcantara Civic Center in Alcantara, Cebu.

With an 8-2 win-loss record, the Computer Specialists will enjoy a twice-to-beat advantage against their opponent in the semifinals, which starts on Tuesday (May 4).

KCS-Mandaue head coach Mike Reyes was pleased with his team’s grasp of their defensive schemes, which he said will prove vital against their semis rivals.

“Of course, maganda ang morale nila pero mas importante is our defensive schemes are getting more consistent than before. We are also addressing the rebounding. I think we are more than ready for the semis,” Reyes said.

KCS-Mandaue was all business from the get-go and cruised to a comfortable 17-point lead at the break, 37-20.

It was an all-KSC show from thereon with Exciminiano sparking Mandaue’s fierce charge in the final half leading to a 28-point blowout.

“Getting better na si Ping. He’s groove sa game is medyo okay na. Pero ayun nga everytime tatakbo siya, natatakot kami,” said KCS assistant coach Jabe Bautista. “Good thing is okay naman ngayon. Lahat masaya kasi he’s back!”

Forward Red Cachuela and Phil Mercader connived for 18 points, 15 rebounds, three assists, and two blocks, while Gryann Mendoza also made valuable contribution for KCS-Mandaue with seven points, six rebounds, six assists, two steals, and a block.

James Regalado and Hero Tomilloso tallied 11 markers apiece for the Warriors, who finished the elims with a 2-8 slate.

Dumaguete’s star guard Jaybie Mantilla, who nearly churned out a quadruple-double in their 90-85 victory over the Tabogon Voyagers, scored only four in just 12 minutes of play. He did not see action in the second half after suffering a leg cramp.