Racal defuses Tanduay surge

Games Tuesday (JCSGO Gym, Cubao) 4 p.m. – AMA Online Education vs Topstar ZC Mindanao 6 p.m. – Phoenix vs Blustar Detergent

Racal took charge early then warded off Tanduay’s late-game charge to pound out a 90-81 decision Thursday to grab the solo lead in the PBA D-League Foundation Cup at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig. The win was the Tile Masters’ ninth against two losses as they got past the Café France Bakers and zeroed in on one of the two coveted berths in the semifinals. “I think it the most important game for us since had we lost, we could end up in No. 4,” said Racal coach Caloy Garcia. He also stressed the need for his wards to hurdle also- ran AMA Online Education in their final elims game on Aug. 9 to assure themselves of one of the top two spots for a twice-to-beat edge in the Final Four.

“Just to make things sure, we want to win against AMA so we get one of the top two spots,” said Garcia.

Jonathan Grey led Racal with 17 points and four rebounds, while Philip Paniamogan chipped in 17 markers, including three triples.

Dexter Maiquez and Chris Javier combined for 24 points while Jamil Ortuoste hit 10 markers in the victory.

Jaymo Eguilos shot 16 points and hauled down seven rebounds while Jeff Javillonar had 14 markers and 12 rebounds for Tanduay, which dropped to 7-4 behind Café France (8-2) and Phoenix (7-3). The scores: Racal 90 – Grey 17, Paniamogan 17, Javier 12, Maiquez 12, Ortuoste 10, Celiz 5, Robles 5, Gabawan 4, Terso 4, Ambulodto 2, Neypes 2, Banal 0, Corpuz 0.

Tanduay 81 – Eguilos 16, Javillonar 14, Acuna 13, Lingganay 11, Alolino 7, Celda 7, Tagarda 6, Mendoza 5, Gotladera 2, Belencion 0, Javelona 0, Santos 0, Stevens 0.

Quarterscores: 27-14, 44-37, 67-64, 90-81