Iron Men seek third in row vs Sumos

MANILA, Philippines - Group B leader Cobra Energy Drink collides with Max! Bond Super Glue today, looking for its third win in a row while Pharex and Blackwater tangle for a share of the lead with NLEX in Group A in the PBA D-League Foundation Cup at Lyceum gym.

The Iron Men hope to shrug off a long layoff when they set out in their 4 p.m. game against a team billed as one of the contenders.

“I believe Max Bond is one of the strongest teams in the tournament. We’ll be in for a tough battle to remain unbeaten,” said Cobra coach Lawrence Chongson.

The Iron Men last saw action March 21 when they disposed of the Junior Powerade side for their second straight win.

The Sumos, on the other hand, tote an even 1-1 card and while they admit the Iron Men are tough to beat, they said they “are ready to battle the best way we could.”

In the 2 p.m. opener, Blackwater Perfume and Pharex break their tie for second with the winner joining NLEX at the helm at 3-1.

While Blackwater is oozing with confidence following its victories over RnW Pacific Pipes and Freego Jeans, Pharex is coming off a sorry 97-99 setback to PC Gilmore last week.

“We’re playing against a potent offensive team that puts a lot of pressure on our defense. We need to zero in on making stops and rebounding,” said Pharex coach Gian Carlo Tan.