MANILA, Philippines—It’s a tale as old as time. When the San Miguel Beermen need a reliable performance to take it to the finish line, they turn to June Mar Fajardo.

While that cliche may take a turn for the worse some days, in Game 3 of the PBA Philippine Cup Finals, the success was like clockwork.

HIGHLIGHTS: PBA Philippine Cup Finals Game 3 – TNT vs San Miguel

The Beermen took a pivotal 2-1 lead over TNT after a statement 108-88 win at Araneta Coliseum on Friday night where, in usual fashion, Fajardo dominated and refused to take credit.

“All of us stepped up,” said a tired but still timid Fajardo after the Beermen took the lead in the best-of-seven Finals for the first time, 2-1.

“Everyone who coach (Leo Austria) inserted in the game stepped up. We just followed his plays and our preparations were good so it’s a good thing that we got this win.”

San Miguel Beermen’s June Mar Fajardo during the PBA Philippine Cup Finals Game 3 against TNT Tropang 5G. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

Fajardo played like he still isn’t nursing a hurt calf with another monster double-double that almost seems mundane for the reigning MVP at this point.

The Gilas Pilipinas big man registered 33 points and 11 rebounds plus three assists, a steal and a block for good measure.

Austria, on the other hand, gave his veteran big a lot of credit for the win, saying his dedication to winning rubbed off on the San Miguel swingmen.

“Of course, we can see that June Mar is a very experienced player when it comes to the playoffs,” said the veteran coach.

“He wants to win and that’s the most important thing because now everyone wants to win.”

Fajardo and the Beermen shoot for a momentous 3-1 lead over TNT this Sunday at Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay.