Pasig City’s MCW Sports team showcased their resilience and determination as they battled fiercely against Caloocan, triumphing with a hard-fought 65-61 victory on a thrilling Friday evening, October 13, at the Caloocan Sports Complex. This thrilling win forced a decisive Game 3 showdown in the quarterfinals of the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League’s Fifth Season North Division.

Robbie Manalang emerged as the hero of the night, pouring in 23 points, which included some spectacular clutch shots. Manalang’s performance led the Pasig squad to victory, even in the face of a raucous home crowd backing their Caloocan rivals.

Manalang wasn’t just about scoring; he also showcased his defensive prowess with three steals and dished out two crucial assists. Supporting him, Kenny Rocacurva contributed 16 points, snatched eight rebounds, and added two assists in this closely contested game.

Ryan Costelo chipped in with eight valuable markers, along with three rebounds and three assists. Tyron Chan added six points to the scoreboard, helping Pasig avenge their earlier 69-71 defeat to Batang Kankaloo in Pampanga the previous Friday.

Buddy Encarnado, the owner of the Pasig MCW Sports team, commended his team’s exceptional composure during the crunch moments. Encarnado emphasized the importance of playing with poise, especially considering the challenges they faced against a more experienced, taller, and home-court-advantage Caloocan squad.

“In a do-or-die situation, with Caloocan ahead 1-0 and riding on the momentum, our backs were firmly against the wall. But I told them that the key to overcoming all odds is maintaining our composure,” shared Encarnado, highlighting the steely resolve of his team.