Meralco loses to Ginebra again as PBA Governors’ Cup semifinal games get underway

Barangay Ginebra continued its dominance over Meralco as the Kings blasted the Bolts, 89-76, last night at the start of the semifinal round of the 37th PBA Governors’ Cup at the Araneta Coliseum.

The Kings now have six wins and four losses, inching closer with the B-Meg Llamados, who have a 6-3 (win-loss) record.

The elimination round records of the six semifinalists were carried over to the semis.

Starting the semifinals with a victory was crucial for the Kings. Although they are currently out of the top two spots, they can earn a crucial incentive that could help them book a finals ticket.

Tournament format states that the top two teams after the semifinals will advance to the best-of-seven championship round. However, a team which finishes out of the top two but wins four of their semifinal games will earn a playoff for the second finals berth. The number one team after the semis automatically gets the first finals seat.

The Kings handily defeated the Bolts in their June 2 encounter in Lapu-Lapu City, 100-73.

This game was no different as the Kings led from start to finish, maintaining double digit leads since closing the first period with a big 25-10 lead.

Kerby Raymundo spearheaded Ginebra’s easy win by firing a team-high 16 points. Raymundo also had 13 rebounds and four assists.

Import Cedric Bozeman pitched in 13 points, while Allien Maliksi and Mark Caguioa added 12 and 10 markers, respectively.

Mario West scattered 22 points, while Asi Taulava added 17 for the Bolts, who dropped to 5-5.