Wednesday, November 21, 2007 Humbled Giants seek reversal
MANILA - After their first defeat, the Purefoods Tender Juicy Giants learned their lesson and want to capitalize on it as they face the equally-tough Alaska Aces today in the resumption of the 2007 Smart-PBA Philippine Cup at the Araneta Coliseum.
The Giants, who failed to maintain their clean slate following a setback to Red Bull, meet the Aces in the opening match at 4:50 p.m.
Sta. Lucia Realty and the Welcoat Dragons, both locked in a three-way logjam from the sixth to eighth spot, part ways as they collide in the main match set at 7:20 p.m.
It was a sad loss for the Giants at the hands of the Barakos, 74-87, on Saturday in Tacloban City, because it also put starting guard Roger Yap in the injury list.
Yap, who injured his left foot during the game against Red Bull, is a doubtful starter in today’s match against the Aces, who are seeking their fifth win in eight matches and hopefully join today’s idles Magnolia and Talk ‘N Text in a tie from second to fourth.
“That setback to Red Bull in Tacloban City sent us down to earth. But it’s a good learning experience for the whole team,” said Purefoods coach Ryan Gregorio.
It’s not going to be an easy sailing for the Giants as Alaska, which last played on Nov. 11, comes from a convincing 91-89 victory over Red Bull.
Welcoat, on the other hand, is aiming to sustain two big upset victories, the first was against Talk ‘N Text, 126-125, on Nov. 11 and the second was over Magnolia, 95-93, on Nov. 16.
“Maybe with our victory today, all the other teams will now start scouting Welcoat because they would not know what’s going to happen next,” said Welcoat coach Leo Austria. (FCC)
