Philippines U21 out of Gold Trophy contention, edged by China U21, 76-86 (74906)Beirut, Lebanon -- Philippines U21 bucked a shaky start and was able to hang on until mid 4th quarter, where China U21 pulled away and secured the precious victory, 86-76. This win will put them in a Finals showdown against Hong Kong U21, who won convincingly over Indonesia U21, 96-65. Meanwhile, Philippines U21 will settle for a bronze trophy, but will get another chance to enter the World Cup via the World Cup Qualifiers, or the so-called Barrage. Philippines U21 opponent will come from Europe or Americas region. It will be announced sometime in Saturday or Sunday. Tentative game schedule will be on Monday night or Tuesday early morning, Manila time.
Ye Xianming led the Chinese team with 23 points on 9 of 13 shooting, 4 rebounds and 5 assists.
Shi Kangxiong scored 20 points, while
Shi Anxiang dropped 18 points. China's defense was the key to this win as they limited
Pedro Mamaril to just 5 attempts the whole game.
Leonilo Gomez led the Filipino-based team with 16 points.
Dino Isaiah Libutaque and
David Castaños were the only other double-digit scorers for the team with 12 and 11 points, respectively.
Points Leaders:
Leonilo Gomez - 16 points
Dino Isaiah Libutaque - 12 points
David Castaños - 11 points
Rebounds Leaders:
Allan Camilo Onganon - 12 rebounds
Axel Marquese - 9 rebounds
Juvenal Delvir - 8 rebounds
Assists Leaders:
David Castaños - 5 assists
Leonilo Gomez - 3 assists
Axel Marquese - 3 assists
Ed Reeder - 3 assists
We're just one win away from another U21 World Cup appearance (via Barrage), so please keep supporting our U21 team.
Maraming salamat at mabuhay ang Pilipinas!
- Leo