Manila NU-MFT edges Pasteros Austen in 2 OTs

MANILA, Philippines - Issa Gaye and Chino Mosqueda supplied the firepower while Matt Salem provided the defensive muscle as Manila NU-MFT wore down Pasteros Austen Morris Associates in a thrilling 89-83 double overtime win in the Filsports Basketball Association Second Conference at the Marikina Sports Complex Saturday night.

Gaye and Mosqueda poured in 27 and 21 points, respectively, while Salem collared a season-best 20 rebounds to power the Mica Tan-backed Bulldogs to their third straight victory.

The Nic Belasco-mentored Associates, who were led by Mark Ollano’s 20 points, battled the reigning UAAP champions in a tight contest in regulation and in the first overtime but lost steam in the second extension and fell to their third loss.

Pampanga Foton likewise stayed unbeaten, posting its second straight victory with a 91-68 rout of Marikina Wangs with reigning Best Player of the Conference Levi Hernandez topscoring for 22 points.

Malolos Mighty Bulsu turned back First Conference titlist Quezon City-University of the Philippines, 76-70, for its first win.