MANILA, Philippines – In the PBA Governors’ Cup at Ninoy Aquino Stadium on Wednesday, Meralco defeated Terrafirma Dyip 107-91, despite experiencing multiple critical absences and a scare in the last minutes of the game. These obstacles were overcome by the Bolts, captained by Allen Durham, who continued their winning streak in the competition.

Even if he wasn’t at his best yet, Durham was essential to the win. In the closing minutes of the game, he not only led a crucial 17-2 run, but he also finished with 23 points and 12 rebounds. Meralco led by a slim 90-84 with 1:24 left, but Durham and Bong Quinto started the game-changing run that made the margin unbreakable at 107-86.

Due to Nenad Vucinic’s stomach sickness, Meralco’s ability to withstand setbacks was put to the test even further. Quinto also suffered a bruising on his left leg early in the fourth quarter after tripping over a wet patch on the floor. He overcame the injury, though, and made a significant contribution to the team’s winning run.

This triumph served as a testament to Meralco’s fortitude and tenacity as they overcame hardship to keep up their momentum in the Governors’ Cup. Despite the losses, the Bolts’ capacity to produce under duress demonstrated their potential as formidable tournament competitors.

Terrafirma, trailing by as much as 59-77 in the third quarter, trimmed the gap to 73-83 before Cansino capped off his breakthrough effort with his fourth triple of the contest from the left corner.

After the Dyip made another threat at 84-90, Quinto blasted in the final three of his four triples during that run, bringing the score to 88-76.

Head coach Luigi Trillo of Meralco expressed confidence in his team’s depth and stressed the need of having players prepared to step up in any circumstance. Meralco’s supremacy on the boards, where they gained a commanding 51-31 rebounding lead, really thrilled Trillo. The team’s selfless play, demonstrated by their 24 assists, was a fitting counterpoint to their impressive display on the glass.

Trillo was happy with his team since they were a cohesive unit and each player had a part in making the team win. This well-rounded strategy demonstrated the team’s adaptability and unity of effort in addition to highlighting their resilience. The coach’s faith in his team is a reflection of Meralco’s dominant position going into the PBA Governors’ Cup campaign.

Despite Stanley Pringle scoring 19 points and rookie Paolo Hernandez setting a career-high with 15 points, mostly on a 4-of-6 three-point shooting effort, Terrafirma suffered its third straight defeat in Group A.

With only nine points and two rebounds, Christian Standhardinger had a quiet game and was unable to have a big effect on his team. To make matters worse for Terrafirma, Juami Tiongson was essentially shut down and unable to score, which severely hindered their efforts throughout the game.

Another important member of the Dyip, Antonio Hester, pulled down eight rebounds in addition to scoring eight points. He may have played his last game for the team because his performance was insufficient to help Terrafirma win. There are rumors that Brandon Lee Edwards, who hasn’t played since the season started on August 18 because of a knee ailment, is now well enough to get back on the floor.

Edwards is anticipated to play in Terrafirma’s upcoming Sunday game against Magnolia, perhaps making his debut for the team. Dyip, who is hoping to turn things around in the PBA Governors’ Cup, may benefit greatly from his comeback. Edwards’ arrival could provide Terrafirma the boost they need to compete more successfully in the competition and enhance their performance, since they are currently struggling to maintain consistency.

Scores at the end of the match

MERALCO with 107 points for the win

Individual scores: Durham 23, Quinto 22, Banchero 17, Cansino 16, Maliksi 12, Mendoza 5, Hodge 4, Caram 4, Torres 2, Pascual 2, Bates 0, Pasaol 0, Rios 0.

TERRAFIRMA with 91 points

Individual scores: Pringle 19, Hester 18, Hernandez 15, Tiongson 9, Standhardinger 9, Sangalang 7, Carino 7, Carino 4, Ferrer 4, Cahilig 3, Hanapi 3, Olivario 0.

Scores per quarter

31-19, 56-43, 79-67, 107-91