Solo 2nd at stake in Coke-TnT duel today

MANILA, Philippines - Talk n Text and Coca-Cola dispute solo second today while B-Meg Derby Ace hopes to check a two-game slide against slumping Barako Energy Coffee in the PBA Fiesta Conference at the Araneta Coliseum.

The Llamados and the Coffee Masters battle at 5 p.m. then the Tropang Texters and the Tigers clash at 7:30 p.m. in the final play date before the tourney takes a break for the annual PBA All-Star event in Puerto Princesa, Palawan starting Friday.

Barako will be playing without import Sammy Monroe who was suspended for one game and fined P20,000 for his flagrant foul on Mark Yee in their game versus Talk n Text last Friday.

“We need intensity on defense plus improvement on offense. Minus Monroe, the locals must show up,” said Barako coach Junel Baculi.

The Coffee Masters have lost their last five games after winning their opening game against the Sta. Lucia Realtors.

The Llamados are fancied to regain their winning ways after losing their last two games to the Coca-Cola Tigers and the Alaska Milk Aces.

Purefoods is reportedly considering looking for a new import to replace Lorenzo Wade.

The Texters and the Tigers are both gunning for a fifth win in seven games for solo second behind the front-running San Miguel Beermen (5-1).

“Again, the challenge is how we fare against powerhouse teams. We need to find it within ourselves to fight for the win,” said Coca-Cola coach Bo Perasol as they brace for a battle against the TnT squad hot on a three-game run.