Montana turns back Hapee 5

LIPA CITY — Montana Jewels staged a big comeback in the final period to turn back Hapee Toothpaste, 77-70, yesterday and stay in the hunt for the last automatic semifinals berth in the Sunkist-PBL 2003 Unity Cup at the De La Salle Sentrum here.

Gary David sizzled again for the Jewelers as he drilled in eight of his 18 points in the final quarter. He also had six rebounds and two assists.

The Jewelers now tote a 4-5 card and will join Hapee and John-O to the next round if they beat Viva tomorrow at San Juan Gym.

The Teeth Sparklers were up, 63-55, when David joined hands with Marlon Basco and Jon-Dan Salvador for the Jewelers who wrested a 71-63 lead, 2:50 remaining in the game.