WATCH: Vic Manuel Highlights [San Miguel vs Converge QF | Mar. 19, 2023]

A rigorous schedule and Converge’s gritty stand could not deter San Miguel Beer from its purpose.

Cameron Clark scored 40 points and 13 rebounds while leading a big third quarter surge that ultimately boosted the Beermen over the FiberXers, 121-115, Sunday and into the PBA Governors’ Cup semifinals at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

CJ Perez tallied his own double-double of 26 points and 12 rebounds and Vic Manuel went a perfect 9-for-9 from the field for 20 points as second-ranked SMB did not let its win-once advantage over its seventh-seeded opponent go to waste.

After playing their third game in five days, the Beermen now get a well-deserved rest before taking on the other quarterfinals pairing between No. 3 Barangay Ginebra and No. 6 NLEX in a best-of-five semifinals duel.

For sure, according to SMB coach Jorge Gallent, his players could sure use the respite to not only rest but also gear up for the tougher grind ahead.

“Nothing comes easy now. It’s the playoffs,” said Gallent.

“We had a hard time against Converge today and I’m expecting we’re gonna have a hard time in the semifinals,” added Gallent. “So we just have to prepare, prepare, prepare.”