ALASKA Milk scotched a rally by Shell Rimula-X to secure their fifth win in six games in the Third Conference tournament of the Philippines Basketball Association in Manila.

Alaska's 99-86 victory over winless Shell put the Milkmen a game away from clinching at least a play-off for a second slot in the best-of-seven finals.

In the second game, Swift Meaties beat Pepsi Mega 115-103 to tie Alaska for first place.