Magnolia levels series after surviving Rain or Shine comeback bid

Magnolia beat Rain or Shine, 94-91, in Game 4 to level the PBA Philippine Cup semifinals last April 22 at the Smart-Araneta Coliseum.

Ian Sangalang had 19 points and 10 rebounds to lead the Hotshots Pambansang Manok’s attack in Game 4. The win tied the series up for Magnolia after losing the first two games of the series.

Even though they led by as much as 21 points in the game, Magnolia’s lead was cut to only one point thanks to late baskets by James Yap and Maverick Ahanmisi that decreased the gap to one, 92-91. After Jio Jalalon scored two free throws to regain a three-point lead, Rain or Shine had a chance to send the game into an overtime but James Yap failed to make a three-point shot as time expired.

“We just tied the series. It boils down to a best of three. Happy and proud of the players, they stepped up big in this game. This is a very crucial game for us. My players used their experiences, energy and aggressiveness to win this game,” said Magnolia coach Chito Victolero.

The game also got emotional after Gabe Norwood and Beau Belga getting technical fouls for complaining to the referees. Rain or Shine coach Caloy Garcia was even ejected for two technical fouls.

Yap scored 24 points for Rain or Shine, which is eyeing to bounce back in Game 5 on Wednesday at the Cuneta Astrodome in Pasay City.

PHOTO: PBA Images

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