Strong Start Propels Ginebra to Victory
Barangay Ginebra San Miguel dominated Meralco Bolts in Game 4 of the PBA Philippine Cup semifinals, securing a decisive 90-71 win at the Mall of Asia Arena on Friday. The victory ties the series at 2-2.
First Half Dominance
Ginebra set the tone early, exploding for 31 points in the first quarter while holding Meralco to just 15. By halftime, Ginebra had extended their lead to 47-32.
Maintaining the Lead
Meralco managed to reduce the deficit to ten points early in the third period, but Ginebra quickly regained momentum. They extended their lead to 27 points, 87-60, with 6:39 remaining in the fourth quarter, ultimately cruising to victory.
Coach Tim Cone’s Insights
“As bad as we played last game, we played that good this game. I just felt the energy was so much better,” said Barangay Ginebra head coach Tim Cone, reflecting on the team’s improved performance following their 87-80 loss in Game 3.
Standout Performances
- Japeth Aguilar: 21 points, 6 rebounds
- Christian Standhardinger: 15 points, 11 rebounds, 8 assists
- Scottie Thompson: 15 points
- Stanley Pringle: 14 points
- LA Tenorio: 7 points, 6 assists, 4 rebounds
Meralco’s Efforts
Chris Banchero and Allein Maliksi each scored 14 points for the Bolts, but it wasn’t enough to overcome Ginebra’s dominant performance.
Scoring Summary
Ginebra 90
- J. Aguilar 21, Thompson 15, Standhardinger 15, Pringle 14, Ahanmisi 7, Tenorio 7, Pinto 4, Cu 3, Gumaru 3, Murrell 1, Pessumal 0, R. Aguilar 0, David 0
Meralco 71
- Banchero 14, Maliksi 14, Newsome 10, Caram 8, Hodge 6, Mendoza 5, Torres 4, Quinto 3, Bates 3, Almazan 2, Pascual 2, Jose 0, Rios 0, Dario 0, Pasaol 0
Quarter Scores
- 1st Quarter: 31-15
- 2nd Quarter: 47-32
- 3rd Quarter: 73-49
- 4th Quarter: 90-71