NLEX Road Warriors’ Robert Bolick in action during a PBA Philippine CUp game against Converge FiberXers. –PBA IMAGES

Robert Bolick delivered a pair of crucial shots down the stretch as NLEX foiled Converge’s comeback bid for an 88-83 victory in the PBA Philippine Cup on Friday at Philsports Arena in Pasig City.

Bolick’s three-pointer and fadeaway shot before the final two-minute mark kept the FiberXers at bay and propelled the Road Warriors to a 6-1 record and a share of the lead with the Magnolia Hotshots.

He finished with 19 points, seven rebounds and 10 assists for NLEX, which preserved the win despite seeing its lead of 18 late in the third reduced to three in the payoff period.

NLEX’s Robert Bolick and coach Kkng Uichico after the close win vs. Converge. | @MeloFuertesINQ pic.twitter.com/aZkOIoKXpS

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Rookie Xyrus Torres had 18, Javee Mocon and Tony Semerad posted 10 points apiece while JB Bahio added nine points and nine rebounds.

NLEX won the inner half of a stretch of two games in three days, with defending champion Meralco next this Sunday at the same venue.

Justine Baltazar tallied 21 points and 10 rebounds, Alec Stockton produced 17 points, six rebounds and three assists while Schonny Winston scored 16 but the FiberXers fell to seventh at 5-4.

Bolick’s three and tough fadeaway put NLEX ahead 86-78 and 88-80, though a Baltazar triple narrowed the gap to five.

Converge did have a chance to pull within three at 88-85 but Winston was called for an offensive foul despite scoring a dunk off NLEX guard Matt Nieto.

The FiberXers’ next match is Wednesday against the lowly Terrafirma Dyip.