MERALCO has awakened from its stupor and now needs another win to fully get going.
Standing in the way of the Bolts are the GlobalPort Batang Pier, who are also aiming to get a stretch run going when they collide Sunday in the PBA Philippine Cup at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
The stakes are high since the winner would move up to a share of fifth-running spot and in good position to make it among the eight teams advancing to the playoffs following the 11-game eliminations.
The loser, on the other hand, gets relegated to as low as 10th.
GlobalPort saw its two-game roll cut short by a 93-107 loss to unbeaten leader and defending champion San Miguel Beer last Wednesday.
Sponsored content: For its part, Meralco is coming off a 105-76 victory over KIA earlier the same day, snapping it out of a three-game slide and putting it right back into the mix.
Coach Norman Black admitted he is hoping the energy and effort his Bolts brought against the Picanto would spill over to the game against GlobalPort.
The renewed energy seemed to be sparked by Cliff Hodge, who finally saw action after being sidelined by bone spurs removal in the off-season.
Hodge had an immediate impact on both ends as he made all four of his shots for eight points to go along with six rebounds and three assists in less than 19 minutes of action.
"Probably just his presence really helped us a great deal tonight because he does give a lot of effort out there, particularly on the defensive end," said Black.
Sponsored content: "He's a good team player so I'm happy to see him back."
In contrast, GlobalPort would still be missing the services of Terrence Romeo, who has been sidelined since before the season by a knee injury.
The Batang Pier, including management, are collectively at a loss on when the scoring champion would make his season debut.
The burden, therefore is for the likes of Stanley Pringle, Sean Anthony and ex-Bolt Kelly Nabong to lead GlobalPort in its bid to get back on track.
As should be expected, Black would also lean on KG Canaleta, Baser Amer, Chris Newsome and Jared Dillinger. (NC)
