Menk, Kings halt Express run

Eric Menk pulled off another big game last night and like the one nullified for technicality, offered it again to his departing mother, in the process leading Barangay Ginebra to a 101-81 bashing of the FedEx Express at the Araneta Coliseum.

Menk nearly matched his 45-point-and-18-rebound showing against the Talk N Text Phone Pals which was nullified after a gruelling double overtime, putting in 38 points and 17 rebounds, in a dominating performance for the Gin Kings.

"I hope this one counts. This one’s for mom," said Menk, offering his awesome game to Mrs. Lydia Padua Menk who was leaving for the United States.

And the Busan Games veteran seemed unaffected by the on-going controversy sparked by the Senate inquiry on Fil-Ams. "There’s nothing new to it. I’ve been here for four years now."

He was all business against the Express, going 15-of-25 from the field and 8-of-8 from the stripe for his biggest output since he also fired 38 in Tanduay’s 103-82 walloping of San Miguel Beer in their one-game playoff for third place in the 2000 All-Filipino Cup.

And with Mark Caguioa, Jun Limpot and Rommel Adducul also putting in significant numbers, the Kings overcame a slew of turnovers numbering 24 as they snapped their four-game skid and at the same time put a halt on the Express’s four-game winning streak.

"Natapat na off-night ang FedEx and the boys really played well specially Eric," said coach Allan Caidic as the Kings improved their win-loss record to 3-4. FedEx fell to 4-3.

"Technically, we’re coming off a four-game losing streak. But despite that, I’m seeing positive sign in my team. Kasi kahit napapagtatalo nakikita mong nandoon ang enthusiasm nila to come back. We’re losing but at least we’re there," Caidic also said.

Alaska Milk regained the solo lead in Group A as the Aces decisioned the Coca-Cola Tigers, 86-77, for their fifth win in eight games in the nightcap.

The Tigers stayed at second place in Group B behind the Red Bull Thunder despite a third straight loss after four successive wins.