Tanduay took control of the ballgame in the second quarter and opened up a 15-point lead at 33–18 in a low-scoring contest. The Rhum Makers were ahead at 71–56 in the fourth period. The Ginebras made a last-ditch rally and close the gap to within three, 74–77, on Chito Loyzaga's triple, Padim Israel split his free throws off a foul from Dondon Ampalayo with seven seconds remaining to give Tanduay a four-point cushion, 78–74, the Gins called for timeout and Francis Arnaiz missed a long, triple attempt and he fouled Hubalde with two seconds left.
