THE AFP Cavaliers defeated the PDEA Drug Busters in the UNTV Cup on Sunday at the Pasig City Sports Center, 98-90.
With the win, the Cavaliers remained at the top spot with nine wins and a loss as it awaits its opponent in the semifinal round, where they have a twice-to-beat advantage.
Cavaliers’ coach Sonny Manucat emphasized that there is no room for complacency in order to continue winning.
“Sabi ko sa kanila hindi pa kailangang mag-relax, ‘yung composure ng team dapat nandoon. Magagawa lang namin ‘yun sa break. But we actually don’t have a break. Bukas resume agad kami,” said coach Manucat.
The Drug Busters, on the other hand, despite failing to advance to the next round, is thankful for being able to join the league of public servants for the first time this season and looks forward to more seasons to come.
In the second game, the Senate Defenders rose to fourth spot of the team standings after overpowering two-time champion Judiciary Magis in a neck-and-neck bout, 74-71.
Chester Tolomia and Warren Ybañez both fouled out in the second half to the advantage of the Defenders.
“Ang game plan ko is ang big 3 nila, Tolomia, (Don) Camaso, Ybañez i-contain. So, we did a pretty decent job. Two-time defending champion iyan. Talagang lalaban iyan, pero we have to do our part,” said Senate Defenders’ coach Mike Fermin.
Gary Sevilla, who made 25 points, 3 rebounds, 2 steals, one assist and a block was hailed as the Best Player of the Game.
The victory gave the Defenders a twice-to-beat advantage in this season’s quarterfinal round.
In the main game of the triple-header, defending champion PNP Responders proved to be more prepared with its championship-caliber performance against runner-up team Malacañang-PSC Kamao, winning by 19 points, 77-58.
Responders’ assistant coach Art Marquez continues with a game plan of thorough practices, with eyes on defending the title.
“Talagang ganoon, mahirap, pero nakukuha sa practice iyan. Basta bawal na mag-relax sa amin,” Marquez said.
Quarterfinal Games
on Sunday
(Pasig City Sports Center)
3 p.m. Senate vs PNP
4:30 p.m. Judiciary
vs Malacañang-PSC