ARQ Builders secure a come-from-behind win to begin MPBA title defense

CEBU CITY, Philippines – The ARQ Builders, the defending champions of the Mandaue's Pride Basketball Association (MPBA), opened their title defense with a hard-fought 83-78 win over the Steadfast Builders on Saturday, August 17, at the Cebu Port Authority (CPA) Gymnasium.

The win was not easy for ARQ as they got off to a difficult start and were down 33-41 at halftime.

In the final quarter, however, the team showed how masterful they could be and made a decisive turnaround that led to a 69-68 lead. Their strong defensive play was the key to success, allowing a decisive 12-point run that ultimately secured the win.

READ: ARQ Builders win MPBA Season 2 title

Jestoni Baclaan and Carmelo Cabahug led the way for ARQ Builders, contributing 20 and 18 points, respectively.

For Steadfast Builders, former Cebu Schools Athletic Foundation, Inc. (CESAFI) stars Rendell Senining and Miguel Gastador scored 21 and 19 points, respectively. Prince Matt Carin also contributed 19 points, but that was not enough to defeat the defending champions.

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Subway cars now 2:0

In the Premier Division, Metro Cars improved its record to 2-0 with a convincing 107-76 win over Urestore, powered by a 20-point performance from Dwight Godinez.

Metro Cars' balanced attack saw six players score in double figures. Uking Delos Santos scored 14 points, Hersley Fuentes and Edison Macua each scored 12 points, Sanel Cabalda and Jerick Cabalda each contributed 11 points and Jake Igot added 10 points.

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Rodney Cabangan was the standout player for Urestore, scoring 28 points, the most of the game. Despite his efforts, however, Urestore now sits at a 1-1 record.

FLAGO PRAYBOYS ACHIEVE FIRST WIN

In another close encounter, the Flago Prayboys defeated Welec 100-96, recording their first win of the season.

Stephen Gonzales and Anthony Ybañez led the Flago Prayboys with 29 and 22 points, respectively.

Etnies Gabato and Mark Monte both put in an impressive performance, scoring 32 points each in a hard-fought match, but the Flago Prayboys emerged victorious.

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