Blu to defend post versus LBC

Blu All-Purpose tries to keep its hold of second place against LBC-Batangas while Sunkist-Pampanga hopes to stay alive against Cheese Balls-Shark today in the second round elimination phase of the 2002 PBL Challenge Cup at the Makati Coliseum.

The Detergent Kings, 6-2, are eyeing to reassert their 93-75 triumph over the Batangas Blades last Nov. 9 as they clash anew in the 5 p.m. encounter.

However, a loss will install LBC-Batangas, 5-3, in a share of second place.

"This is where the real action begins. So we have to work doubly hard and maintain our momentum. The top two teams after the second round phase will enjoy the twice to beat incentive in the crossover semifinals," said Blu coach Leo Isaac.

This means Marlon Legaspi and Aries Dimaunahan will carry much of the load for the Detergent Kings who are hoping to capture their first ever PBL regular crown.

Backing them up are Eric de la Cuesta, Lou Gatumbato and Allan Gamboa.

But the Batangas Blades are raring to get back at Blu and a win will bolster chances for the semis.

"Gustong makabawi ng mga bata. But I told the boys that instead of thinking of vengeance, we should be more focused on our foremost concern is to avail of the twice to beat incentive and get into the finals," said LBC-Batangas coach Nash Racela.

The Sunkist Juicers likewise needed the win over the Cheese Balls in the 3 p.m. battle to kick off their bid for a four-game sweep that will avail them of the incentive.

Though Sunkist-Pampanga is far behind with a 1-7 card, a four-game sweep gives the RFM-franchise the incentive to playoff the top team in Group B for the right to square off with the No. 4 squad in Group A for the last semifinals berth.

"This is the last card we have. Sabi ko sa mga bata na kung hindi man maganda ang performance namin sa first round, bawing bawi lahat ng iyan kung manalo kami today," said Sunkist-Pampanga coach Boycie Zamar.

However, the Juicers are underdogs in this match having lost to Cheese Balls, 74-97 last Nov. 7. Moreover, Cheese Balls Shark is hoping to snap out of an eight-game losing skid.