Oracle, Pharex seek title clash

MANILA, Philippines – Oracle Residences and Pharex try to arrange a showdown for the PBL PG Flex Unity Cup crown as they take on their respective semis rivals today at the San Juan gym.

Foiled in their sweep bid last Tuesday, the Titans hope to clinch the win this time as they battle the Cobra Energy Drink Warriors at 4 p.m.

Cobra snatched a 92-88 win in Game 3 to keep its slim hopes in their best-of-five series.

“Oracle took us lightly and we took advantage of that,” Cobra coach Lawrence Chongson said.

Pharex likewise tries to wrap up its own series with Licealiz as it goes for the clincher and a first stint in the finals in the 2 p.m. opener.

After losing Game One, the Bidang Generix, behind Fil-Am Chris Ross, scored back-to-back victories, including an 85-76 overtime win last Tuesday, to seize a 2-1 lead.

“For us to advance to the finals, we have to stick to our gameplan. We have to be aggressive,” said Pharex coach Carlo Tan. “But I know they will make some adjustments, so we have to be ready.”

Ross, who had another triple-double performance of 21 points, 12 rebounds and 9 assists, will again lead Pharex along with Ronnie Matias, Francis Allera and Ian Saladaga.

For Licealiz to force a sudden death, former UAAP MVP Jervy Cruz and James Sena must double their effort inside and Josh Vanlandingham must find his range from the way he did Game 1 where he scored 18 points.