Muscovados gain share of MPBL lead

MANILA, Philippines — The Negros Muscovados tripped the Pasay Voyagers, 86-84, in double overtime last Thursday and shared the lead with early winners Abra and Zamboanga in the MPBL (Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League) Sixth Season at the FilOil EcoOil Centre in San Juan.

Mark Tallo delivered when it mattered as the Abra Weavers subdued the Marikina Shoemasters while the Jaycee Marcelino-led Zamboanga Masters Sardines routed the Bicolandia Oragons, 97-82.

Hubert Cani canned a stepback jumper with 6.8 seconds left to lift Negros to its second straight win in the 30-team tournament.

Jeremy Cruz also played a pivotal role for Negros as he drilled in back-to-back triples to push the Muscovados ahead, 82-79, while Alvin John Capobres accounted for the other two points that helped sway the balance

The MPBL trooped to the Wes Arena in Valenzuela yesterday for another triple-bill pitting Mindoro against Sarangani at 4 p.m., Bataan against Bacolod at 6 p.m., and Pangasinan against Valenzuela at 8 p.m.