Texters trip Beermen in PHL Cup Finals opener

(GMANews.TV) -Talk 'N Text kept the game close in the first half then used a huge scoring run in the fourth period as a finishing kick to knock off San Miguel, 91-82, in Game 1 of their best-of-seven title series in the PBA Philippine Cup on Saturday at Victorias City Sports and Amusement Center in Victorias City, Negros Occidental.

Jason Castro teamed up with Jimmy Alapag and Kelly Williams in that huge fourth-quarter breakaway to turn things around for the Tropang Texters, who trailed by nine points midway in the third period.

Playing his usual role coming off the bench, Castro essayed his role as one of the league's best sixth man. He registered 16 points to go with his five assists and two steals, as the Chot Reyes-mentored squad drew first blood against an SMB five that missed the services of ace forward Jay Washington.

Washington played only a few minutes in the first half but rode the bench for most of the game after suffering from cramps.

Mick Pennisi filled the void left by Washington, the pacesetter in the Best Player of the Conference derby.

But the veteran Pennisi failed to step up and the Beermen clearly felt the absence of the 6-foot-7, former top overall rookie pick, who was one of the most consistent performers on San Miguel's side all-conference long.