TOUGH TEST
Huge hurdle.
That’s how the grand slam-chasing San Mig Super Coffee sees its second game in the PLDT Home Telpad PBA Governors’ Cup elimination round Sunday at the Mall of Asia Arena.
Representing that obstacle is June Mar Fajardo and the San Miguel Beer team, so solid in their 97-92 win over Rain or Shine Friday night at the Big Dome.
The Mixers and the Beermen clash at 5:15 p.m. in another expected slam-bang duel between these teams that fought through the full distance of the Governors’ Cup best-of-seven finale last year.
“San Miguel is one of the best teams out there, if not the best. No doubt, they are going to be a huge hurdle for us,” said San Mig coach Tim Cone.
“We’re hoping we can continue to integrate Marqus (Blakely) and Allein (Maliksi) in the rotation and improve as the conference progresses. (It’s a) short conference, every game is crucial,” Cone added.
San Miguel coach Biboy Ravanes also knows so well the tough task they face.
“We hope our game the last time will help boost our confidence and build our momentum. Going up against San Mig is always a tall order on both defense and offense,” said Ravanes.
“They’re a champion team who knows what it takes to win. In order to have a chance against them, we have to bring our A game and we have to be consistent especially our locals,” Ravanes added.
Fajardo brought out his A game Friday, coming through with 28 points and 18 rebounds to power the Beermen past the Elasto Painters.
Meanwhile, San Mig Coffee showed no sign of championship hangover or fatigue, coming out with its normal spunk as it subdued Barako Bull, 76-66, in its Governors Cup debut Wednesday.
With a balanced effort, the Mixers took control almost throughout, overcoming a challenge put up by the Energy in the payoff period to pull off a convincing victory that spoke well of their capability to pursue the final ware that will complete a Triple Crown. (SB)
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