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Meralco, Mahindra target no. 4

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MAHINDRA was given three chances to make it among the top four in the PBA Governors Cup, but stumbled each time.

The Enforcer vow not to do so Wednesday when they tackle anew an equally determined Meralco side for the last twice-to-beat advantage in the quarterfinals at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

The one-game playoff was forged after both teams finished the 11-game eliminations with identical 6-5 slates and the winner bags No. 4 and will be rewarded the win-once advantage over the loser in their quarterfinals duel.

Meralco coach Norman Black expects his team to have its hand full anew against an opponent eyeing to add on to its recent run to franchise milestones.

“We are expecting a tough matchup with Mahindra. They have played well this conference and they are well-coached,” said Black.

According to Mahindra’s Chris Gavina, his team is ready to get back at the same Meralco squad that escaped them with an 86-83 win last Sept. 11, capping a nine-day stretch where his team also lost to Rain or Shine and Barangay Ginebra.

“Our last three elimination round games have definitely taught us lessons that will help us become successful in our very first playoff appearance. Lessons such as not taking any play off, staying in the moment and trying to win every single possession on offense and defense,” said Gavina.

The rookie coach, chief assistant to playing-coach Manny Pacquiao, has already made history for the young franchise by steering it to a first-ever 4-0 start and its first quarterfinals stint.

His Enforcer are pumped up and braced, added Gavina. “We have reviewed game tape and addressed our weaknesses and diligently worked on improving our transition game, offensive flow and defensive rotations,” he stated.

The Bolts are themselves geared up and would be led anew by Allen Durham as well as a bunch of locals led by Chris Newsome, Cliff Hodge, Jimmy Alapag and Jared Dillinger.

It is on defense, particularly on stymieing Mahindra import James White and preventing him from putting up his usual 24 points and 13.3 rebounds, that Black wants his charges to focus on.

“Our biggest concern is White, who has been a force on both ends of the court,” said Black while also citing the likes of LA Revilla, the comebacking KG Canaleta and Aldrech Ramos.

“Defending the penetrations of Revilla while also challenging the outside shooting of KG and Ramos will also be key,” stressed Black.

“It’s playoff time so putting up a solid defense will be our main focus.”

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