Chris Ross recorded his first career double-double and Mark Cardona scored 16 of his 24 points in
the fourth quarter as Meralco weathered a fiery charge by Powerade down the wire, 88-85, Wednesday
at the Araneta Coliseum.

The six-foot Ross made a notable performance in 41 minutes that is reflected in his stats line --
12 rebounds 10 assists and 6 points – as the Bolts collected their third straight win in the PBA
Philippine Cup and improved to a 5-5 win-loss record.

“We badly needed that win because we want to get out of the danger zone,” proclaimed Meralco
head coach Ryan Gregorio, referring to the 7th and 8th spots that will be pitted against the No.1
and No. 2 teams after the elimination round which will enjoy a twice-to- beat advantages in the
quarterfinals.

By avenging their 81-66 loss to the Tigers last Oct. 30, the Bolts moved up to a share of fourth
place with defending champion B-Meg Derby Ace and reigning Fiesta Conference titlist Alaska and with
a bright chance of improving further as they face cellar dweller Barako Bull in their next game on
Dec. 1.

As he relishes their latest accomplishment, Gregorio heaped praises on Ross, who impressively kept
their plays organized and made his teammates look good.

“It’s nice to see guys like Chris making a big contribution on our team. He was probably
dismissed already by most teams early in his career but he is proving that he deserves to be in this
league,” Gregorio said.

“But when the game is on the line who else would we turn to but SuearMac,” added the Meralco
coach, referring to Cardona.

With the game tied at 84, the Bolts went to Cardona who fumbled off a double team but quickly
redeemed himself by picking up the loose ball for a looping lay-up to give Meralco the lead with 30
seconds remaining.

Cardona, who struggled on a 9 of 21 shooting, sealed the game by making two free throws with seven
seconds left.

It was another frustrating loss for the Tigers who struggled with offense most of the game and
missed crucial plays down the stretch.

Powerade had a chance to again tie the game when Mark Macapagal was fouled by Nelbert Omolon with
19 seconds left and Meralco up, 86-84.

But the streak-shooting forward missed the first of his two free throws that effectively blew the
Tigers’ chances to send the game into overtime.

Macapagal, who came off the bench, and David, who struggled against Meralco’s defense, each
scored 18 points for Powerade which picked up its fifth consecutive defeat. With a 3- 8 record
overall, the Tigers are now in danger of being eliminated. (DBC)

The scores:

Meralco 88 - Cardona 24, Espinas 21, Thiele 10, Aquino 9, Omolon 8, Ross 6, Gamalinda 4, Menor 2,
Belga 2, Pacana 2, Weinstein 0.

Powerade 85 - Macapagal 18, David 18, Laure 10, Espino 9, Ritualo 9, Antonio 8, Reyes 4, Calimag 4,
Gonzales 3, Rizada 2, Anthony 0, Enrile 0, Mendoza 0.

Quarterscores: 25-19, 42-37, 72-65, 88-85