Chris Newsome of the Meralco Bolts. PBA ImagesMANILA, Philippines – Chris Newsome carried Meralco past Converge through his game-winner, 91-89, to open their title defense campaign in the PBA Season 49 Philippine Cup, Friday at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.

Newsome, who had some clutch moments last season, did it again this time as he faked two defenders and sank a jumper with 0.8 seconds left in regulation, completing a comeback after going down by as much as 20 early in the ballgame.

Alec Stockton had a chance to steal the win as possession went to them on a turnaround shot, to no avail as it was way off.

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Newsome totalled 15 markers to lead his team in scoring and collected six rebounds, four assists, and a steal.

Four more Bolts logged twin-digit scoring -- Bong Quinto contributed 14 points and six boards, big man Raymond Almazan chipped in a double-double of 13 points and 12 rebounds, while Aaron Black and Raymar Jose added 10 each, highlighting the team's balanced offense tonight.

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Justin Arana's 23-point showing was down the as they absorbed the unfortunate loss. Stockton had a decent game with 17 points, while Justine Baltazar grabbed a double-double of 14 markers and 10 boards.

The Scores:

MERALCO 91 – Newsome 15, Quinto 14, Almazan 13, Black 10, Jose 10, Reyson 8, Caram 6, Rios 5, Torres 3, Hodge 3, Cansino 2, Pascual 2, Bates 0, Pasaol 0

CONVERGE 89 – Arana 23, Stockton 17, Baltazar 14, Winston 13, Garcia 6, Santos 5, Delos Santos 4, Racal 2, Corpuz 2, Caralipio 2, Nermal 1, Ambohot 0, R. Santos 0, Suerte 0

QUARTERS: 22-34, 42-44, 63-66, 91-89