MANILA, Philippines – Terrence Romeo ignited San Miguel’s comeback in Game 2 of the PBA Season 49 Governors’ Cup semifinals at the SMART Araneta Coliseum on Friday night, guiding them to a 131-125 overtime triumph over Barangay Ginebra. Romeo put on a spectacular show while playing in front of a sizable audience. He finished with 26 points, nine of which came from beyond the arc in the first and second periods.

Romeo’s scoring spurt with 2:07 remaining in the extra round provided San Miguel a vital lead, 121-117, ensuring the Beermen’s momentum in the closing minutes. When his team most needed him, the three-time scoring champion came up and showed his ability to execute under duress.

Marcio Lassiter, EJ Anosike, and Jericho Cruz helped Romeo by adding the last touches to secure the victory. The Beermen trailed 103-99 late in regulation after giving up a 74-61 third-quarter advantage. Their efforts helped the team avoid loss.

Because of their tenacity, San Miguel was able to recover and tie the series at one. The Beermen’s resolve and seasoned presence were evident in their ability to withstand the strain, particularly during overtime. This win puts San Miguel in a strong position to maintain their momentum going into the pivotal Game 3, when both clubs are keen to seize control of the series.

Head coach Jorge Gallent emphasized the 32-year-old guard’s readiness and dependability when he stepped up during a pivotal play in the game. Gallent observed that the seasoned guard regularly turns up excellent performances when called upon. The fact that the player scored 22 points in the fourth quarter and overtime, demonstrating his capacity to perform under duress, was a clear demonstration of this.

The guard’s outstanding play throughout this crucial part of the game was a major contributor to the team’s victory. His scoring run helped the club secure a much-needed victory while also keeping them in the game. His outstanding attacking performance confirmed Gallent’s belief that the athlete could succeed under pressure. The team’s depth and preparedness to play at the greatest level, particularly as they handle the postseason’s hurdles, are demonstrated by the coach’s faith in him.

Even though Justin Brownlee had an exceptional effort with a game-high 39 points, 15 rebounds, and seven assists, the beloved Barangay Ginebra couldn’t finish the comeback and grab a 2-0 series lead. Three-time Best Import Brownlee spearheaded Ginebra’s offense, especially in the fourth quarter when he scored 15 points to keep his club in the game. Even though he scored nine points in the final 3:09 of regulation, his efforts in the closing minutes of regulation were unable to seal the victory.

With 28 points and eight rebounds, Japeth Aguilar also made a major impact and was crucial in supporting Brownlee’s valiant efforts. In addition to them, Scottie Thompson contributed 16 points, six rebounds, and ten assists. Ahanmisi and Stephen Holt added 15 and 14 points, respectively. Barangay Ginebra was unable to organize for a victory, despite their best attempts.

Game 3 of the best-of-seven series between two of the league’s most dangerous teams is scheduled to take place today at the Dasmariñas City Arena in Cavite as the series continues. The result of this crucial game might change the course of the series because both sides are showing strength and resiliency. In what has already been a hotly contested playoff matchup between these two titans, fans are excitedly awaiting another furious struggle.

Scores at the end of the match

San Miguel with 131 points for the win

Individual Scores: Anosike 35, Perez 28, Romeo 26, Fajardo 23, Lassiter 12, Cruz 5, Tautuaa 2, Ross 0, Rosales 0, Trollano 0, Enciso 0, Manuel 0.

Ginebra  with125 points

Individual Scores: Brown Lee 39, J.Aguilar 29, Thompson 16, Ahanmisi 15, Holt 14, Abarrientos 4, Tenorio 3, Cu 2, Devance 2, Pinto 1, Pessumal 0, Adamos 0.

Scores per quarter

22-24, 51-47, 85-76, 110-110, 131-125.