Perfect Texters finish on top; SMB, SMC dispute no. 2

MANILA, Philippines -- In the nightcap, Talk n Text, even minus injured import Richard Howell, distinguished itself the first team in 24 years to sweep its elimination-round assignments as the Tropang Texters nipped the Globalport Batang Pier, 92-91.

The Batang Pier could have sent the game into overtime but import Evan Brock split his foul shots with 1.9 ticks left.

Meanwhile, San Miguel Beer and San Mig Coffee pursue their respective bids for a twice-to-beat bonus in the quarterfinals as they meet in a crucial match also at the MOA Arena on Saturday.

The 6 p.m. Petron Blaze Saturday Special is a virtual yours-or-mine duel for No. 2 spot.

San Miguel automatically claims playoffs second seeding if it beats San Mig Coffee. The Mixers, however, put themselves in a good position to steal the spot if they prevail.

Coach Tim Cone said it would be a battle.

“You always have your hands full when you go up against San Miguel. They have so many weapons to account for. They really force the tempo and they have real good in and out action with Junmar Fajardo and Kevin Jones,” said Cone.

The Beermen were right behind the Talk n Text Tropang Texters in the standings before they were stopped by the Alaska Milk Aces, 78-89, the last time out in a road game in Binan, Laguna on March 29.

And the Mixers closed in on the Beermen following a 97-84 repulsing of the Air21 Express Wednesday.

“So we faced each other in a big game in terms of standing. Both teams should be ready,” said Cone.