Knights smother embattled Marlins

STA. CRUZ, Laguna – The Andok’s San Juan Knights overcame a sluggish start with an explosive finish as they blasted the Socsargen Marlins, 114-90, yesterday in the Metropolitan Basketball Association First Phase at the San Luis Sports Complex here.

It was the Knights’ second straight victory sans coach Philip Cezar, who served out the last of his two-game suspension in the aftermath of their tumultuous match with the Cebu Gems two weeks ago.

Chris Calaguio scored 23 of his 33 points in the final half, including two three-pointers and a Blitz 3 in the third period that set the tone for the rout.

The Marlins took their sixth straight loss.

The Marlins threatened at 62-58, but Bruce Dacia spearheaded the Knights’ third quarter breakaway with five straight points while Randy Alcantara scored on another Blitz 3 that gave San Juan a 74-60 cushion.

The Knights also played without Rafi Reavis, who had back spasms but Omanzie Rodriguez took care of the boards to anchor the team’s transition game.

Cezar and Reavis are expected to be back when the Knights seek revenge against the Gems tomorrow.

Like in their previous losses, the Marlins started on a high note, even seizing a 29-19 lead after the first quarter.

But they turned cold at resumption of the contest, going scoreless for nearly six minutes as the Knights came up with a 17-point binge to regain control.

Meanwhile, FedEx Laguna survived Cebuana Lhuillier’s rally to escape with a 100-95 victory, the Lakers’ second in four games.

The Lakers bucked the loss of Chris Clay, who was ejected earlier in the first half for flagrant foul, and came up with a big run to build enough lead that cushion the Gems’ comeback. Cebu slid to 5-2. – Joey Villar