Confident NLEX likes its playoff matchup vs TNT

Sister teams TNT and NLEX figure in their first-ever playoff matchup, disputing a spot in the second stage of the 2016 Smart Bro PBA Philippine Cup quarterfinals.

As the higher seed, the Tropang Texters enjoy the twice-to-beat advantage, taking their first crack at next round in their 5:15 p.m. faceoff with the Road Warriors Saturday at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.

But with their 107-101 win in their elimination round duel, NLEX coach Boyet Fernandez is confident they have a good chance to get past TNT even with its “win-once” privilege.

“Feel ko makaka-match up kami sa kanila ng maganda,” said Fernandez with his team led by ageless warrior Asi Taulava, the vastly improved Sean Anthony and reliable guards Jonas Villanueva, Kevin Alas and Simon Enciso.

Anthony exploded with 32 points while Enciso and Taulava added 19 and 18, respectively, as the Road Warriors humbled the Texters last Nov. 20.
Taulava practically held a clinic for fellow Fil-Tongan player Moala Tautuaa in that match.

At the end of the eliminations, the Texters (6-5) barely edged out the Road Warriors (5-6) for six spot.

No wonder, many consider the TNT-NLEX showdown as too close to call.

“Ang mabigat lang eh twice-to-beat sila,” said Fernandez.

The Road Warriors had two back-to-back victories before plunging down the leader board with four straight losses in the elims.

They salvaged seventh spot in stunning the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters, 111-106, Sunday.

TNT, meanwhile, has won successive games since its 3-1 start.

TNT coach Jong Uichico said they have a job cut out for them versus NLEX. (SB)

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