CEBU, Philippines - Team RCAF of Romeo Faunillan coasted to its third straight victory in as many starts after edging out Carletos, 82-79, in the Norvic Abella Cup 2009 basketball tournament at the Labangon barangay hardcourt.
Carletos was ahead at halftime, 40-38, behind the explosive tandem of Junrey Guimarangan and Bulldog Dacuyan.
Sensing danger, the RCAF stalwarts put their acts together to stage a daring breakaway in the third period and post a 60-53 edge heading into the final 10 minutes of the contest.
RCAF then neutralized Carletos' offense in the windup to escape with a marginal win.
Jong Wilbur topped RCAF with 16 points followed by Fritz Baguia wioth 13.
Guimarangan paced Carletos with 16 markers, while Dacuyan chipped in 11 points.
The scores
RCAF (82) - Wilbur 16, Baguia 13, A. Tabasa 10, Tapere 10, RJ Tabasa 6, Dacuyan 6, Sarucam 5, Faunillan 4, Rusiana 4, Sabanal 2, Ortega 2, Mosqueda 2, Martinez 2
Carletos (79) - Guimarangan 16, Dacuyan 11, J. Bosque 8, Rama 7, M. Penetrante 6, Penetrante 6, C. Bosque 5, Betanio 5, Amimita 4, De Asis 4, Pilares 4, J. Penetrante 3. – GGM (THE FREEMAN)