Cobra storms past Magnolia

MANILA, Philippines – Paul Lee completed a rare four-point play in the fourth quarter to help Cobra Energy Drink beat Magnolia Purewater, 74-67, in Game One of their quarterfinal series in the PBL PG Flex Unity Cup at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig yesterday.

Held to just three points in the first two quarters, Lee exploded for 15 points in the final half, including nine in the last quarter, as the Energy Warriors completed the come-from-behind victory.

The Energy Warriors trailed by six points at the end of the third quarter but opened the last period with an 11-0 run, highlighted by Lee’s four-point play and another triple by James Martinez.

That put Cobra on top for good, 62-67 with Lee capping his endgame heroics with a drive from a steal off Eder Saldua that made it, 71-64, for the Energy Warriors with only 45 seconds remaining in the contest.

Cobra goes for the fourth last semis berth with another win in their best-of-three series Tuesday.

“We really prepared hard for this game. We hope we can finish the series on Tuesday,” said coach Neil Parado.

Martinez sustained a deep cut in his left eyebrow after he was elbowed by Fil-Am rookie Edwin Torres late in the second quarter.

Torres, who made four points, three assists and a steal, was ejected, slowing down Magnolia’s offense.

Still, the Wizards posted a 38-31 lead at halftime as Neil Raneses took over in offense, finishing the half with 11 points.