MANILA, Philippines – Acuatico attained a much-needed victory in the ongoing elimination round of Next5Hoops Metro Manila’s intermediate division as the brigade shackled Don Papa for an 85-75 victory on Sunday, November 20 at Asia Pacific College in Makati City.
The undermanned troop of Acuatico pulled off an upset triumph with the astonishing heroics from Raphael Gusi, who flirted with a double-double performance as he hauled 20 points, nine rebounds, one assist and one steal.
Gusi received a helping hand from wingman Allan Gusi, who pitched in 19 markers to go along with three boards, three dimes and two steals.
Although Don Papa suffered a disappointing defeat at the hands of Acuatico, the team did not go down without a fight as four of its starters tallied with whopping digits from scoring range.
Francis Talaboc contributed 21 points, while Dave Otanes and Frankie Talaboc finished with 20 and 18 markers respectively.
Meanwhile, Eric Laceda accomplished a double-double feat, hauling 14 points, three rebounds, 11 assists, three steals and one block.
Despite producing huge numbers for Don Papa, it was not enough to put them on the winning track against Acuatico.
In the other fixture, Kenneth Valenzuela’s 29-point machinery powered Fuel Saver versus Wizards for a 91-81 triumph.
Also, Goto Pilipans hammered Priminent Builders, 121-76, leaning on Gonzales and Magan’s 35-point output.
