By Adrian Stewart Co

NorthPort Batang Pier got a huge boost in morale after pulling off a 109-83 stunner against TNT KaTropa in the 2019 Honda PBA Philippine Cup last night at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Stanley Pringle led the win with 27 points and nine rebounds, Sean Anthony added 14 markers, while Moala Tautuaa and Juan Paolo Taha each scored 13.

Batang Pier got to an early surge behind Pringle for a 22-16 first quarter lead. It grew to 27 points midway in the second period with triples from Garvo Lanete and Jonathan Grey.

KaTropa made a strong start in the third and came within 11 points of their opponent but Batang Pier was quick to restore order as baskets from Pringle and Anthony built their largest lead of 30 points.

With the victory, Batang Pier improved to a 3-6 win-loss record, boosting their chances of making the quarterfinals provided they win their final two elimination round games. For KaTropa, the defeat dropped them to fourth place with a 7-4 win-loss record, dashing hopes of earning the second twice-to-beat advantage./ASC, WDJ