Davao player powers Eastridge

MANOLO FORTICH, Bukidnon — Jhondie Quibol dissolved Manila Southwoods’ day-long assault with a scorching seven-under-par 65 at the Del Monte Golf Club on Sunday, enabling Eastridge to take a five-point lead into the final round of the 75th Philippine Airlines Men’s Interclub golf team championships.

Quibol, one of six Davao-born players in the squad, fired a tournament and personal-best 43 points as Eastridge held on to keep the driver’s seat with 323 points.

“My putting and driving were just terrific,” said the 25-year-old Quibol who gunned down an eagle and six birdies against one bogey.

Quibol left his hometown last year to join the Eastridge golf program under general manager Gimo Asuncion. He said he plans to turn pro next year.

Alexander Bisera backed up Quibol with 36 points while Edison Tabalin added 33.

Defending champion Manila Southwoods brought in the big guns in the third round in the hope of seizing the momentum.

It nearly did.

Ryan Monsalve fired 39 while Aidric Chan and Lanz Uy chipped in 38 apiece as Southwoods found no need for Masaichi Otake’s 36 points.

The 115 was the best score by any team this week, auguring well for Manila Southwoods’ bid for a ninth championship.

“We played very well today, my last man scored even par and did not count,” said Southwoods non-playing captain Thirdy Escano.

“Another one like today should be able us to do the job. Let’s hope for the best.” Del Monte had a disappointing result in its home course, shooting 98 points to slip further in third place with 309, 14 points behind Eastridge.

Raul Minoza and Julius Bautista carded 35 and 34, respectively but Romeo Jaraula could only come up with 29 points.

South Pacific Davao was a far fourth with 264 with Nino Villacencio scoring 36 points.

With only five points separating Eastridge and Manila Southwoods, a dramatic showdown looms at Pueblo de Oro on Monday.