PASIG’S backcourt against Caloocan’s frontline.
These will be the key factors when Pasig City MCW Sports collides with Caloocan Batang Kankaloo today, Friday, in the deciding Game 3 of their quarterfinal series in the MPBL (Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League) Fifth Season Playoffs at the Caloocan Sports Complex.
The Tropang Pasig leaned on crack guards Robbie Manalang and Ryan Paule Costelo and wingman Kenny Rogers Rocacurva to get back at the Batang Kankaloo 65-61 last Oct. 13 at the same venue to force the knockout encounter for a semifinal slot in the North division.
In their series opener last Oct. 6, Caloocan banked on Gabby Espinas’ buzzer-beater jumper to nip Pasig 71-69.
The Tropang Pasig could have survived that one were if not for their horrendous free throw shooting, making only one of their last seven attempts, including the last four.
While Pasig draws strength from its small guys, Caloocan’s strength emanates from big men Reil Cervantes, Paul Sanga, Espinas, Ronnie Mathias and Mac Baracael.
Pasig veteran Jason Ballesteros again needs to work doubly hard to prevent the Batang Kankaloo from dominating the boards.
Both Pasig coach Boyet Fernandez and Caloocan counterpart Robert Sison believe that Game 3 will be a tough fight throughout.
The winner between Pasig and Caloocan will tangle with Pampanga in the semis, another best-of-three affair.
