Mahindra, Ginebra clash for chance at twice-to-beat

Barangay Ginebra and Mahindra both take a shot at an outright playoff crack at a twice-to-beat advantage in the quarterfinals as they collide Friday in the PBA Governors Cup at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

The Kings and the Enforcers slug it out at 7 p.m. both chasing a win that will guarantee of at least a tie for fourth place at the close of the one-round-robin elimination phase.

Going to the match, the Kings are at No. with a 6-2 win-loss record while the Enforcers are tied at third with the San Miguel Beermen at 6-3.

So far, TNT KaTropa is the lone team assured of a twice-to-beat advantage with its league-leading 8-1 record.

Phoenix Petroleum has fought into contention for the Top Four after winning five of its last six games. The Fuel Masters are now just outside the Top Four at 5-4.

Ginebra is well rested and will be riding the momentum of its own hot surge as it tangles with the Mahindra side which has been struggling as of late.

After a superb 5-0 start under coach Chris Gavina, the Enforcers and import James White have slowed down, losing three of their last four outings.

Compounding their woes was the sidelining of top gun KG Canaleta after undergoing appendectomy.

Minus Canaleta, to carry more load for Mahindra are White, Aldrech Ramos, Paolo Taha, LA Revilla and Asian import Iman Mashaddy.

The Gin Kings topped the Star Hotshots, 116-103, in their much-anticipated showdown last Aug. 28 then had a welcome 10-day respite. During their break, they spent a day with the fans, opening their practice to them on Monday.

They pursue a Top Four finish in their last three games against the Enforcers, the Phoenix Fuel Masters and the TNT KaTropa Texters.

Meanwhile, the Enforcers are now hard pressed to regain winning ways if they’re to enjoy a twice-to-beat incentive in their first quarterfinals appearance.

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