By Adrian Stewart Co

The Magnolia Hotshots showed poise down the stretch as they cruised to an 82-74 victory over the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters in Game 5 of their 2019 Honda PBA Philippine Cup semifinal series last Wednesday night at Cuneta Astrodome in Pasay City.
Holding to a slim 71-70 lead with under two minutes left, the Hotshots earned back-to-back hits from Rome dela Rosa and Ian Sangalang for a 75-71 edge. A three-point play by Rafael Reavis later extended Magnolia’s lead to 78-71. The Painters then showed some life down 78-74 after a three-pointer from Eduardo Daquioag but an inside basket from Reavis, followed by two free throws from Jiovani Jalalon, sealed the win.
Andy Mark Barroca and Jalalon each finished with 14 points, while Reavis and Rodney Brondial each chipped in nine markers.
The win gave the Hotshots a 3-2 lead in the series.
“We’re so aggressive; the energy was there,” said Hotshots head coach Chito Victolero. “This is not yet over; we need four wins to win the series.”/ASC, WDJ