Iloilo bucked the ejection of coach Eric Gonzales to stun Manila, 88-85, in the MPBL Lakan Season Monday night at the San Andres Gym.
Samboy de Leon came away with 19 points, including crucial baskets down the stretch, while homegrown Aaron Jeruta produced a double-double performance of 16 points and 10 rebounds as they propelled the United Royals to their seventh win in 11 games.
It was the second loss in 11 games for the Stars, who remained in solo second spot of the tough northern division of this tournament.
In other games, Batangas City downed Zambonga, 77-67, for a 6-3 record while Biñas City turned to brothers Allan and James Mangahas in getting back on the winning track with an 89-84 win over Valenzuela.
