QC-UP deals Foton 2nd straight loss in FBA

MANILA, Philippines -- Quezon City University of the Philippines came through with an inspiring effort as it downed Pampanga Foton, 91-81, to enhance its semifinals bid in the Filsports Basketball Association Second Conference at the Malolos Sports and Convention Center in Bulacan Saturday night.

Bullstrong Lionel Tekoudjou came through with game-best 28 points and 17 rebounds while Jeryl Espanola contributed 17 points to help the Maroons seal their third win against four defeats and keep their place inside the magic four.

The Maroons, which topped the Toplanders to capture the First Conference crown early this year, thus avenged their 65-74 defeat to Foton in the first round.

The victory also spoiled the return of Mikee Reyes from an ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) injury he suffered in the First Conference after the former UP standout came through with 26 points, eight boards and five assists.

In the other game, Marikina Wangs outclassed the Manila NU-MFT, 84-79, and Pateros Austen Associates pounded Malolos Mighty Bulsu, 98-89, to grab a share of the No. 3 spot with Quezon City UP on 3-4 (win-loss) slates.

Cedric Labing-isa, who played college ball for Nationa U, had 21 points and seven dimes for the Deliverers while Jawar Purdy, Chris Cofield and playing coach cum team owner Nic Belasco scattered 25, 22 and 20 points, respectively, to help seal it for the Associates.

Pampanga Foton and Manila NU-MFT remained at joint first with 5-2 cards despite their recent setbacks.

FBA President and CEO LJ Serrano and Commissioner and CFO Vince Hizon graced the weekend games along with host Malolos Mayor Attorney Christian Natividad.