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ALASKA survived a giant Terrafirma scare before clinching a 99-96 victory Tuesday in the PBA Philippine Cup at the Angeles University Foundation Sports and Cultural Center.
The Aces faced an uphill battle throughout the game before notching their fourth win in seven outings, behind CJ Perez and company until JVee Casio made the lead layup with just 1:34 left, 97-96.
Alaska also had a great opportunity late in the game when Perez missed a layup, leading to a Maverick Ahanmisi straying from the free throw line that increased the Aces’ lead to two points.
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Terrafirma once again went to Perez on subsequent possession, but Vic Manuel challenged his layup attempt and forced an error before MJ Ayaay made one of two free throws on the other side with 8.3 seconds to go.
Eric Camson then missed an open triple that would have tied the game, allowing the Aces to escape in a game in which they trailed as many as 14 points, 43-29, in the second quarter.
Alaska coach Jeff Cariaso said he was not surprised by the fight displayed by Terrafirma, which fell to 0-5.
“We came into this game knowing that this is a very good team and a very talented team,” said Cariaso of Terrafirma. “Their talent and what a good team they are, the record does not show it. They are much better than their record. “
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“We came to this game respecting them. Was I surprised that they came out hungry and desperate? Not really. Was I surprised that they made great shots? Not really. There is no easy game, “he added.
Manuel led Alaska in scoring once again with 18 points and seven rebounds. He also hit back-to-back baskets to give the Aces the lead, 95-93, only for Camson to respond with a triple for Terafirma.
Robbie Herndon added 12 points, while Mike DiGregorio contributed 11 points for the Aces, who were able to cut the deficit to seven points at half, 52-45, to keep it close.
Alaska lost Rodney Brondial in the game after being charged for two technical fouls in the third period for a heated exchange with Jeepy Faundo and Juami Tiongson.
Pérez led Terrafirma with 25 points, while Tiongson added 21 points.
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Scores:
Alaska 99 – Manuel 18, Herndon 12, DiGregorio 11, Casio 11, Tratter 10, Galliguez 9, Ahanmisi 8, Ayaay 8, Teng 7, Ebona 5, Brondial 0.
Terrafirma 96 – Perez 25, Tiongson 21, Adams 11, Camson 11, Ramos 10, McCarthy 8, Calvo 4, Gabayni 4, Faundo 2, Cahilig 0, Balagasay 0, Cell 0.
Quarters: 19-28; 45-52; 79-79; 99-96.
