JUAMI SAVES DAY FOR TERRAFIRMA

Like a diesel engine, Juami Tiongson and Terrafirma took some time to get going against Blackwater. But when they did, the Dyip proved unstoppable for the fading Bossing.

- OLMIN LEYBA

Tiongson knocked down a booming step-back triple with 12.5 seconds left to lift the Dyip past the Bossing, 92-91, and wheel back on the track in the PBA Philippine Cup yesterday at the historic Rizal Memorial Coliseum.

Tiongson's winner from long range completed Terrafirma's spirited rally from as many as 19 points and put an end to a two-game skid for an improved 3-2. They tied their victims, who have now lost two straight after a 3-0 start.

"Buti na lang malapit kami sa Itaas," Dyip coach John Cardel said upon entering the pressroom of the 90-yearold venue that had hosted some of the greatest games and the greatest names in Philippine basketball.