Allen Durham played splendidly and got much-needed help from local Bolts as Meralco scored a lopsided 107-91 victory over the Terrafirma Dyip in the PBA Season 49 Governors’ Cup on Wednesday evening at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.
Durham scored a game-high 23 points, including nine in the first quarter, as the Bolts quickly took control, securing their second win in three outings.
Bong Quinto, who unfortunately injured his left leg after slipping early in the fourth quarter, contributed 11 of his 22 points in the final 10 minutes of the game, helping the Bolts force a three-way tie for the lead.
Chris Banchero added 17 points, shining in the second period with nine points, including a jumper in the last 1:59 that gave the Bolts a 52-42 advantage.
CJ Cansino scored 16 points, with eight coming in the third quarter, as the Bolts extended their lead to 12 points, 79-67. Cansino’s two free throws in the final 4:26 of the third quarter pushed the Bolts ahead by 14, 71-57.
Quinto further solidified the lead with three consecutive three-pointers, giving the Bolts a 103-85 advantage with 3:21 remaining.
Coach Luigi Trillo expressed satisfaction with the team’s performance, particularly their teamwork and rebounding.
“We’re seeing that as time goes by, AD (Allen Durham) is getting in shape. I like the 24 assists we had—the ball is moving. We also did well on the boards, 51-41. Those are certain keys we’re looking for,” remarked Trillo.
