(Eagle News) — The Philippines fell to second place in the group stages of the Fiba World Cup qualifiers after it was defeated by Australia on Thursday.
With their 16-point win over the white shirts, 84-68, the Boomers effectively ended Gilas’ unbeaten run.
But it didn’t seem like the Philippines was headed for the loss in the beginning.
Gilas had a hot start, taking the advantage midway through the second quarter.
The Boomers, however, suddenly made their presence felt, as they went on a 12-2 run and snatched the lead from the white shirts in the run-up to the break.
The Australians continued to dominate the game in the fourth quarter, as they widened their lead to the dismay of the struggling Gilas, who could not count on injured star Jayson Castro.
In the end only Junemar Fajardo finished in double figures.
Cameron Gliddon led the Australians with 16 points.
John Brandt had 13, while Kevin Lisch and Mitchell Creek contributed 12 points each.
Gilas will be up against Japan at the Mall of Asia Arena on Sunday.