MANILA - Despite losing during the first time they met, the Philippine Patriots remain a solid favorite when they face the Singapore Slingers anew in the resumption of the 1st Asean Basketball League Invitational Tournament today at The Arena in San Juan City.

The Patriots, who will try to avenge their lone setback in the six-nation tourney, hope the hometown crowd will help boost their confidence against the undefeated Slingers.

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Singapore defeated the Patriots, 74-69, two weeks ago.

Coach Loiue Alas is now more confident after doctors gave the 6’4” Nonoy Baclao the go signal to see action even if he has a slight groin injury.

“With the support of the crowd and the improvements of the boys the past few days, we have a good chance of beating them,” saiad Alas, who missed the team’s first two games, including the match against the Slingers, due to his commitment with Letran.

Aside from the fast recovery of Baclao, coach Alas also praised import Jason Dixon for his improvement during their tune-up match against RP-Smart Gilas last Wednesday.

“He’s getting better and better. Hopefully, he can dish out the same performance he did against Smart Gilas,” said Alas. “He’s getting back to his old, fighting form.”

Alas will also lean on team captain Rob Wainwright and Elmer Espiritu.