Phoenix downs Terrafirma in preseason game

Phoenix Super LPG showed character and poise in the face of Terrafirma’s spirited fourth-quarter rally to carve out a 104-92 triumph and snap a three-game losing slide in the PBA On Tour preseason games on Friday at the Ynares Arena in Pasig City.

For a while, the Fuel Masters were in control of the match after erecting a sizable 91-67 lead on a basket by slotman Tzaddy Rangel, more than nine minutes left in the game.

But veterans Aldrech Ramos, Gelo Alolino, Ed Daquioag and Javi Gomez de Liano led the Dyip’s ambitious 20-2 exchange that enabled them to narrow the gap at 87-93, with still 3:48 remaining in the game.

Chris Lalata and JJ Alejandro, however, rose to the occasion by delivering the key baskets down the stretch to avoid Phoenix’s meltdown, sealing the team’s third win in six games in the exhibition series.

Reden Celda of Phoenix led the team with 19 points against Terrafirma. PBA IMAGE 

The loss denied Terrafirma a chance to win its third straight as the wards of coach John Cardel dropped to 3-4 in the PBA On Tour.

Reden Celda led Phoenix with 19 points, Lalata had 15 and eight boards, while Javee Mocon and Simon Camacho added 13 and 12, respectively.

Larry Muyang chipped in 11 points and eight rebounds, while guard Tyler Tio finished with 10 points, five boards and four assists for the Fuel Masters.

Gomez De Liano led the Dyip with an all-around performance of 23 points, eight rebounds and four assists. Eric Camson and Ed Daquioag each scored 15 and Ramos added 13.