MANILA -- Zark's-Lyceum broke away late to repulse JRU, 91-81, in the PBA D-League Aspirants Cup at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City on Thursday.
The Jawbreakers deprived the Heavy Bombers a chance to steal the win through an 8-2 run midway through the fourth quarter for an 82-72 lead. It spoiled the latter's last gasp in an attempt to rally back from a 12-point deficit after the third quarter to come to within four, 70-74.
"I guess we just got our groove back," said coach Topex Robinson, whose team is now in fifth place at 6-4 with one game left in its schedule. "The way I see the players now, they are more engaged. There was a burnout factor and we had to pay the price, but coming to the playoffs, I think we're getting the drive once again," he said.
Mike Nzeusseu led Zark's-Lyceum with 22 points and 11 rebounds, while CJ Perez added 16 points.
Jeckster Apinan tallied 20 markers and 12 boards for JRU, which fell to 1-8.
Box Scores:
ZARK'S BURGER-LYCEUM 91 -- Nzeusseu 22, Perez 16, Tansingco 11, Yong 9, Ayaay 7, Jc. Marcelino 5, Iba?ez 4, Jc. Marcelino 4, Pretta 3, Santos 3, Caduyac 2, Marata 2, Serrano 2, Baltazar 1.
JRU 81 -- Apinan 20, Dela Virgen 15, Porter 14, Mendoza 10, Esguerra 5, Bordon 4, Grospe 4, Yu 3, Sawat 2, Guzman 1, Silvarez 0.
Quarterscores: 23-20, 47-43, 72-60, 91-81. (PNA)
