Aces stop Beermen's rally, wrest solo lead

MANILA, Philippines - Willie Miller and LA Tenorio pumped in crucial treys to quell San Miguel’s uprising down the stretch as the Alaska Aces made it two in a row in the KFC PBA Philippine Cup with an 85-74 whipping of the Beermen in a road game in Panabo, Davao del Norte last night.

Miller and Tenorio combined for three consecutive triples after the Beermen came charging back from a 15-point deficit, coming to within one at 68-69.

The Aces reestablished control at 78-70 and went on to complete the win, making Alaska the early solo leader of the all-Filipino tourney with a 2-0 win-loss card.

On Wednesday, Miller churned out a career third triple-double job, powering the Aces to a pulsating 99-83 triumph over the Barako Bull Energy Boosters.

The two-time MVP winner had another worthy showing as the Aces notched a follow-up win, outplaying the Beermen in the initial game in the “Phoenix Fuel PBA on Tour.”

The Beermen remained winless in two starts, beaten by Barangay Ginebra Kings at the Araneta Coliseum also last Wednesday.

Meanwhile, Purefoods Tender Juicy and Ginebra clash in an exciting game at the resumption of play at the Big Dome today, both also looking for a follow-up on their triumphant debut.

Barako Bull and Coca-Cola mix it up in the day’s other game, each one out to bounce back from a loss.

Against the Beermen, Miller played a stellar role anew for the Aces, coming through with 25 points and nine rebounds.

Versus the Energy Boosters, the two-time MVP awardee had 19 points, 12 assists and 11 rebounds – his third triple-double job since joining the pro league in 2002 with Red Bull.

Tenorio pumped in two lethal treys in the fourth quarter and finished with 18 points.

Dondon Hontiveros and Arwind Santos made 15 apiece with Mick Pennisi adding 13 for the Beermen.

Santos scored on two jams, highlighting San Miguel’s 13-2 run that brought them within one at 68-69 with 5:37 left to play.