Meralco got back on track in its quest to reach the PBA Philippine Cup playoffs for the first time in 5 years after beating Blackwater, 89-85, at the Angeles University Foundation in Pampanga on Wednesday, November 4.

Chris Newsome churned out 19 points and 8 rebounds in a balanced effort of 5 players in double figures as the Bolts, who last made the All-Filipino quarterfinals in 2015, improved to 4-3 for 6th place.

Raring to snap a three-game skid, the Elite shaved what was once a 13-point deficit to a single possession, 75-78, before Newsome scored 5 straight points to restore order for his side en route to the win.

Reynel Hugnatan – who turned 42 a day prior – continued to defy his age with 14 points for Meralco and Bong Quinto delivered all-around numbers of 14 points, 6 assists, and 4 rebounds.

Cliff Hodge had 11 points, 8 rebounds and 3 blocks, while Allein Maliksi came off the bench and produced 10 points.

“Our goal today was basically to put ourselves in a position to make the playoffs. That is what we’re trying to accomplish,” said Bolts head coach Norman Black.

Meralco ended the opening quarter up 25-15 and never trailed, crushing all comeback efforts from Blackwater, which slipped to 10th place with its fourth straight loss for a 2-5 record.

Don Trollano led the Elite with 16 points and 6 rebounds, while Roi Sumang added 15 points and 5 assists off the bench.

The Scores

Meralco 89 – Newsome 19, Hugnatan 14, Quinto 14, Hodge 11, Maliksi 10, Almazan 7, Salva 4, Black 4, Amer 4, Jamito 2, Pinto 0, Jackson 0.

Blackwater 85 – Trollano 16 , Sumang 15, Escoto 13, Tolomia 10, Canaleta 8, Golla 5, Daquioag 6, Dennison 4, Belo 4, Magat 4, Salem 0, Gabriel 0.

Quarters: 25-15, 44-36, 66-59, 89-85.

– Rappler.com