Powerade looks to stage upset against top-seeded B-Meg in rubbermatch for semis slot

Game today:

Araneta Coliseum

6 p.m. – B-Meg vs. Powerade

The Powerade Tigers try to make history and bump off the top seed in the playoffs as they face off against the B-Meg Derby Ace Llamados in a do-or-die match for a slot in the semifinals in the PBA Philippine Cup today at the Araneta Coliseum.

Showing persistence and toughness, the Tigers upset the Llamados, 97-88, at the start of the playoffs last Wednesday to force the sudden-death contest set at 6 p.m. tonight.

“Our first win was one of the measures of how far we have gone as a team. Our ability to close out the series against the No. 1 team would be a testament to our character,” said Powerade coach Bo Perasol. “We believe that we have what it takes to win this game.”

Star wingman Gary David once again showcased his knack for scoring as he scattered a game-high 32 points, all of which coming in the first three periods to help thwart the top-seeded Llamados.

Rookie guard Marcio Lassiter was also a revelation as he scored 24 points while power forward Doug Kramer had a double-double of 13 points and 10 rebounds.

Reigning Most Valuable Player James Yap was shackled in the first half, where he shot a horrendous 2-for-11 from the field. He hit stride later and ended up with 21 markers.

Talk ‘N Text secured the first slot in the semis  by nipping Barako Bull, 81-79, in the first game last Wednesday.