Eumir Marcial draws new opponent for Pacquiao–Barrios undercard
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SMB ties Finals series at 1-1, this time without controversy
The San Miguel Beermen have tied the PBA Season 49 Philippine Cup Finals at 1-1 after defeating the TNT Tropang 5G, 98-92, in Game 2 on Wednesday, July 16, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
Don Trollano delivered a breakout performance off the bench, tallying 22 points on an efficient 10-of-16 shooting from the floor. He also grabbed six rebounds and handed out an assist, leading San Miguel's charge to equalize the series.
June Mar Fajardo provided solid support with 17 markers, nine boards, three dimes, and one steal. Mo Tautuaa also stepped up, sealing the win with a wide-open layup to close the game without any controversy. He ended with 16 points and four rebounds.
Jeron Teng made his presence felt with 10 markers—all in the first half—while assistant playing coach Chris Ross showcased his trademark leadership and defensive intensity, wrapping up the game with seven points, four rebounds, seven assists, and four steals.
Photo Courtesy: PBA
The Beermen started strong with a 23-19 lead in the first quarter, then widened the gap with a 28-20 second period to take a 51-39 advantage at the half. However, TNT responded with a 35-24 third-quarter run to trim SMB’s lead to just one, 75-74, entering the fourth and final quarter.
For TNT, Calvin Oftana kept his team in the hunt with 23 points, seven rebounds, one assist, and one steal. He was followed by Jordan Heading with 15 markers, two boards, and one deflection.
Tropang 5G big men Kelly Williams and Brandon Ganuelas-Rosser also scored in double figures with 11 and 10 points, respectively. Meanwhile, Poy Erram finished with six points in 15 minutes of action before leaving the game due to a sprained ankle.
With the series now tied, both teams look to gain the upper hand in Game 3 on Friday, July 18, at 7:30 PM at the Big Dome.
The Scores:
SMB 98 – Trollano 22, Fajardo 17, Tautuaa 16, Teng 10, Perez 8, Ross 7, Cruz 6, Brondial 6, Tiongson 4, Lassiter 2.
TNT 92 – Oftana 23, Heading 15, Williams 11, Ganuelas-Rosser 10, Enciso 7, Erram 6, Pogoy 6, Khobuntin 6, Heruela 4, Aurin 4, Galinato 0, Varilla 0, Nieto 0.
Quarter Scores: 23-19; 51-39; 75-74; 98-92.
