Alec Stockton took over down the stretch as Converge got a much-needed shot in the arm for its playoff bid, taking down Meralco, 105-97, in the PBA Season 49 Governors’ Cup at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium on Wednesday, Sept. 18.

With the FiberXers behind, 96-97, in the last 1:58 of the contest, Stockton took matters into his own hands, scoring nine of his team’s last 11 points to pull the rug from under the Bolts and inch close to a quarterfinals berth.

Converge improved to a 5-4 record for a solo third in Group A while Meralco slid to a 6-3 slate although still enough to keep its second spot.

Stockton actually fired 12 of his total 27 points in the final frame as Converge, after leading by as many as 15 points in the earlier quarters, managed to overcome the late rally from Meralco.

He also added 11 rebounds and five assists in an all-around performance that complemented new import Jalen Jones who had a solid debut with 32 points and 10 rebounds although he needed 34 shots to reach his output.

Jones, took over the spot of original import Scotty Hopson, who was relegated to the reserve list due to a leg injury.

Justin Arana had 12 points and six rebounds while Schonny Winston and King Caralipio had their share with eight apiece.

The FiberXers were actually looking good through the first three quarters even taking a 73-58 lead in the third frame. The Bolts, however, displayed poise and resilience as they went on a massive run behind CJ Cansino and Allen Durham to even take a 92-88 lead halfway through the fourth quarter.

Meralco last held the lead, 97-96, before Stockton drilled a triple, a floater and two free throws to create the much-needed separation.

Durham paced Meralco with 25 points, nine rebounds and six assists while CJ Cansino added 21. Chris Newsome had 14 but was not on the floor toward the end after fouling out with a little over three minutes left.