LA TRINIDAD, Benguet – Buguias survived a tenacious Kibungan, 79-67, Saturday and join Mankayan in tie for the seventh place in the Cong. Eric Go Yap Congressional Cup – Benguet Basketball League at the Benguet Sports Complex here.
Buguias looked ready to take the game early as it raced to a 24-10 lead, but Norman Danglay and John Paul Juralbal used their experience to disrupt play that saw them take a nine-point lead.
Buguias, however, woke up and fought to within two, 34-36, as the first half ended.
In the third, Buguias still struggled but started to pull away only for Kibungan to fight back and move to within just two. But Buguias maintained its composure to take a 58-52 at the end of the third.
With Danglay and Juralbal focusing on their offense in the final canto, Buguias started to pull away and closed the game with three minutes left as their lead ballooned to double digit.
Fernando Bacani, Jr. once again led the team with 19 points as he pulled 11 boards to lead two others in double-double performances. Jerry Olsim chipped in 16 and added 11 boards, while big man Allan Pau Intervalo had 10 markers and team high 14 boards.
Jumar Pulido also had 16 points as the team moved to 4-4 (win-loss) and tie Mankayan which earlier won against Bakun.
Danglay led Kibungan with 20 points and hauled a game high 15 rebounds, while Jularbal added 15 including 11 boards. The team missed scoring leader Romel Lavandia, whi Jake Roxas said is on duty.
Lavandia, like Roxas, Juralbal and five others are policemen, who are expected to be on duty to help man traffic especially in Baguio where Lavandia is stationed, particularly at one of the busiest area, Pacdal and their jurisdiction includes Mines View, Wright Park and the Botanical Garden, one of Baguio’s most frequented tourist destinations.
It was the eighth setback for Kibungan against two victories. CEGYCC Release
