Alaska out to put SMBeer to 0-3 hole

MANILA, Philippines - Alaska Milk, enjoying high morale and momentum and fully charged after a two-day break, goes for an imposing 3-0 lead against a beleaguered San Miguel Beer side at the resumption of their PBA Fiesta Conference best-of-seven title showdown at the Araneta Coliseum tonight.

The odds are now heavily stacked on the Aces’ side as they take on the Beermen in their 7:30 p.m. encounter, looking to move to within a game from wrapping up the coveted crown via sweep.

Lots of things go Alaska way following the two-day respite as the Aces enabled to recharge after playing 14 straight games aside from getting an extra push on the possible return of center Sonny Thoss from an ankle injury.

The team could also draw inspiration and gain motivation from its key players likely to be feted on the Leo Awards set at 5 p.m.

Thoss, point guard LA Tenorio and forward Joe De Vance are Aces expected to get slots in the Mythical selections.

Derby Ace’s James Yap is the top favorite for the Most Valuable Player plum while teammate Rico Maierhofer is cinch for the Rookie of the Year award.

Alaska coach Tim Cone vowed they would not let their guards down and instead step up their drive in a bid to send SMB in a hole no team in league history has able to recover from.

“We have to go out and try keep putting the pressure on them. We have to stay aggressive,” said Cone.

San Miguel coach Siot Tanquingcen, meanwhile, stressed they’re not yet out and very much in the thick of the battle.

“I’m convinced we’re not too far off. We just have to clear things up,” said Tanquingcen.

“I have to admit we’re playing poorly. But despite that, we’re still there. Maybe, we lack the mental focus. That’s among things we need to work on,” Tanquingcen added.

Tanquingcen felt the Aces have the mental toughness that works well to their advantage.

“How long have they been together? They’ve been together through many battles. The experience gives them the mental toughness. They’ve been there so they can handle the situation well,” Tanquingcen said.

The Aces enjoy the 2-0 series lead after having won close games Friday and Sunday. They took Game One at 89-83 and Game Two at 94-90.

Tanquingcen said he could also be blamed for the two defeats.

“I could have drawn better plays or put the players in a good position to win,” said Tanquingcen.