Balanga Chooks stamped their class against upstart HUP Tondo Manila, 21-10 (6:05) to take Leg 2 of the Chooks-to-Go Pilipinas 3×3 MelMac Cup, Friday.
Karl Dehesa led his sides’ offense with eight points to boot but it was Chris De Chavez’ dagger from the right corner with 3:55 left that clinched them the P100,000 prize in this tournament also presented by Gold’s Gym and Coca-Cola.
Alvin Pasaol powered his way through his defenders for five points, while Santi Santillan and De Chavez added four apiece.
“Bagong kalaban, bagong strategy kasi hindi pa namin sila nakalaban before e,” said Pasaol as Balanga missed the majority of season one due to them entering the Jeddah Masters. “Kaya kinailangan namin ng hot start para mas gumaan laro namin.”
Advancing to the Finals was a much more difficult achievement for Balanga to do, as they had to fight tooth-and-nail against Pasig Chooks in the semifinals.
Much like the Leg 1 Finals, Balanga took care of things in the clutch for the 21-17 victory.
The Mindoro Tamaraws took third place for P20,000.
Leg Three of the invitational takes place on Saturday, October 26 at the same venue.
