Monday, February 04, 2008 Barakos take Game 4, even series at 2-2
MANILA - The Red Bull Barakos held Purefoods Tender Juicy Giants to only two points in the extension period to post a pulsating 97-88 overtime triumph yesterday and level at 2-2 the best-of-seven semifinal series of the 33rd Smart-PBA Philippine Cup at the Cuneta Astrodome.
The Barakos’ tight defense in the crucial stretch of the match led by Francis Adriano, Cyrus Baguio and Celino Cruz was the turning point they have been long waiting for as they even held the Giants scoreless for more than four minutes in the five-minute overtime.
“As I’ve said before, the longer the series goes is much better for us. And we were lucky James Yap did not play anymore after the first period,” said coach Yeng Guiao.
As the long series is now locked at 2-2, the battle for the first finals berth is now reduced to a best-of-three affair when both teams meet anew for the crucial Game 5 on Wednesday.
The other semifinalists, Sta. Lucia Realty and Alaska Aces were still playing at presstime.
“I told my players to hold on until anything happened and when the time comes for us to go ahead then that was it,” said Guiao.
Purefoods, which is seeking its 20th finals appearance since joining the league in 1988, won the first game, 103-84 and the third match, 99-90, last Friday.
“We have to take control of the series now. We will make several adjustments and some rotations to our key players. But what is important is we have to overcome the pressure,” said Guiao.
After Baguio scored on a quick drive that sent the game into overtime, 86-86, the Giants, who missed the services of top shooter Yap three-fourth of the way due to an injury, could not find their range and missed miserably some easy shots, allowing the Barakos to post an eight-point lead, 94-86, only 44 seconds remaining. (FCC)
