Tigers, Painters make oddsmakers red in the face
Journal Online
Nobody had expected that the Coca-Cola Tigers and the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters would still be around at this point.
That these two ballclubs would be facing each other to determine the last quarterfinalist of KFC-PBA Philippine Cup was so unthinkable.
RoS made the biggest noise eliminating the Sta. Lucia Realtors with a 90-86 decision in a match-up many observers believed should be a walk in park for Kelly Williams and Co.
“We’re just lucky we hit our shots,” offered RoS coach Caloy Garcia after the unexpected reversal.
The Elasto Painters made just 44 percent of their attempts (35 of 78), slightly better that the Realtors, who shot an awful 35 percent (28 of 80).
The bottom line is Ro
Suddenly, the Elasto Painters, who struggled throughout the elimination round and finishing ninth with a 4-14 record, find themselves one win away from advancing to the best-of-five quarterfinals.
Standing in the way of RoS’ quarterfinals bid are the Coca-Cola Tigers, who arranged the “You or I” showdown by holding off the Burger King Whoppers, 118-112, in the other wildcard match-up Sunday.
“That’s not the kind of ending I would like to happen going against RoS on Wednesday,” said Coca-Cola coach Bo Perasol, referring to his team’s near-collapse in the closing minutes of the fourth quarter.
“I hope we could carry the same type of energy on Wednesday.”
Jade observers favored the Tigers to dominate Wednesday’s game scheduled at 7 p.m. at the Ynares Center in Antipolo. They contend big men Asi Taulava and Dennis Espino presents.
“I would take that as a compliment. But in a knockout game anything can happen,” Perasol said.
Meanwhile, the PBA is offering “Barkado Mo Sagot Ko” promo for Wednesday do-or-die match.
The limited offer entitles a group of three for every purchased ticket at the gallery section while one lower level tickets is entitle two twin seats.
