Yeng uneasy going up vs former team

MANILA, Philippines - Burger King and Barako Bull figure in an emotional match today in the Motolite PBA Fiesta Conference at the Araneta Coliseum as the two teams meet for the first time since coach Yeng Guiao’s transfer from the Photokina Marketing franchise to the Lina Group ballclub.

“For sure, there would be some emotions,” said Guiao, himself expecting a fiery mood especially from the Barako Bull side in the 5 p.m. contest.

It’s no secret that some officials at the Barako Bull were disappointed over Guiao’s decision to leave the team only to join another squad.

“To me, it’s going to be a weird game, it’s a little unusual,” said Guiao. “It’s good we’re playing them only now and not earlier. If it’s earlier, I might be telling myself why I’m here (Burger King) when it’s (Barako Bull) my team.”

Two months with Burger King, Guiao believed he could related with the team and vice versa.

“Somehow, there’s already a closure,” Guiao said.

Guiao and his Whoppers (formerly Titans) are shooting for a third win in five starts while the Energy Boosters, with coach Leo Isaac, are gunning for a second win against three losses.

Rain or Shine seeks a share of second place with Sta. Lucia Realty at 3-1 while Barangay Ginebra bids to check a two-game skid as the Elasto Painters and the Kings clash in the day’s other game at 7:30 p.m.

Meanwhile, Sta. Lucia’s Marlou Aquino was named Accel-Motolite Player of the Week for the period March 11-15 for his superb games where he helped power the Realtors to victories over the Kings last Wednesday and the Energy Boosters Friday.

Aquino, playing extended minutes with Dennis Espino nursing an injury, has been delivering huge numbers that helped the Realtors to a 3-1 start in the tourney.

Burger King went to a 2-0 start before suffering back-to-back losses under the short-lived management of Mikee Romero and his group.

Air21 president Lito Alvarez has reassumed control of the team and he hinted at a forthcoming revamp of the coaching staff.

Likely to come aboard is Rhoel Nadurata, taking over from assistant coach Jorge Gallent.