Late run propels Meralco past NLEX

Alex Stepheson was a beast down low for Meralco. KC Cruz

The Bolts led by just two heading into the final period, 69-67, but they went on to uncork a 19-4 run capped by back to back triples from Chris Newsome and Jared Dillinger to go up 88-71 with 5:29 left in the game.

NLEX went on a 13-3 run in the final few minutes, but the lead proved to be to large for them to overcome.

Meralco's import Alex Stepheson led his squad with 18 points and 24 rebounds, enough to draw praise for Bolts head coach Norman Black:

"Another good game for us. Alex was moving a little bit better tonight. He controlled the defensive rebounds, locals stepped up. They seem excited about our chances this conference."

Stepheson got a lot of help from the locals, with Jared Dillinger leading in scoring with 20 points. Chris Newsome had 15, while Reynel Hugnatan and Baser Amer added 13 adn 12 points, respectively.

Only Wayne Chism scored in double figures for NLEX, as the import had 18 points and 17 rebounds. Carlo Lastimosa was limited to six points, while Sean Anthony only scored two points off a 1 of 5 clip. The Road Warriors have now lost their second straight game in as many outings, while Meralco enjoys the top spot at 2-0 with Rain or Shine. — DVM, GMA News