The Meralco Bolts are gaining momentum in the PBA Season 50 Philippine Cup with consecutive wins following the FIBA window break. After a 120-87 demolition of Terrafirma Dyip on Wednesday, the Bolts overcame the Phoenix Super LPG Fuel Masters, 88-78, Friday, December 12, at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.

With the victory, Meralco improved to 5-4, closing in on the leaders as the race for the Top Four tightens. Rain or Shine, San Miguel Beer, Converge, Magnolia, NLEX, and TNT remain in contention, while Phoenix, Blackwater, and Terrafirma are on the verge of early exits. Titan Ultra also retains slim playoff hopes with two remaining games against Phoenix and Ginebra.

Cansino shines for Meralco

CJ Cansino led the Bolts with a game-high 22 points, hitting 8-of-13 field goals and 2-of-3 free throws, along with four rebounds and an assist in just under 24 minutes. His back-to-back Best Player of the Game awards highlight his crucial role in Meralco’s playoff push.

“Trabaho lang, I’m just doing my job to be aggressive and to play defense. Yun ang nagbibigay sa akin ng playing time,” Cansino said. “Kung ano ibigay ni coach na role ko gagawin ko. No. 1 is to play defense, yun naman ang priority namin sa Meralco. Susunod na lang sa depensa ang opensa.”

Chris Newsome helped secure the win with 17 points, five rebounds, and three assists, while Bong Quinto and Cliff Hodge added 11 and 10 points, respectively. Despite Phoenix cutting a 17-point deficit to just three late in the game, Meralco restored control with back-to-back treys from Newsome.

Bolts maintain Top Four ambitions

Meralco coach Luigi Trillo praised the team’s resilience against a determined Phoenix squad. “Phoenix is a tough team, and they’re fighting for their playoff bid. We started well and they chipped away. We know there’s a sense of urgency for both teams. In the end, we’re thankful, we pulled through.”

With the Bolts now firmly in contention, the team looks to carry its winning form into the final stretch of the elimination round, aiming for a Top Four finish and a twice-to-beat advantage in the playoffs.