EXPECT a more ferocious TNT squad to come out against Meralco Sunday in the PBA Philippine Cup at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.
The Tropang Giga should for they have lost two straight and need to do some scrambling in order to jack their current 2-3 record and climb up from ninth-running spot.
For their part, the Bolts have won back-to-back games and are now sitting on an even 3-3 slate.
Should coach Luigi Trillo's side realize a third straight win, they would not only firm up their inclusion among the top eight but also move up to as high as fourth-running spot.
More wins in its remaining matches in the 11-game elimination round and Meralco could gain a twice-to-beat advantage rewarded a top two finisher in the ensuing quarterfinals or at least a best-of-three duel for those winding up at Nos. 4-6.
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Just snapping out of its funk with a win that should help prop its bid for inclusion among the top eight advancing to the next round is the immediate goal of TNT.
TNT was actually expected to come out with renewed energy following an 89-91 loss to San Miguel Beer last March 17, but instead played listless for the most part and thus got blown out by NorthPort, 96-112, just last Friday.
Against the Batang Pier, the Tropa shot poorly from the field for the most part and even committed 17 of their total 19 turnovers in the first 36 minutes of play that enabled the former to erect as much as a 66-34 lead before going to the final quarter with an 85-57 lead.
One positive for TNT is the fact it was able to find its solid game of old and managed to outplay NorthPort in the final period. Said momentum is projected to be carried over by the Tropa against Meralco.
But the Bolts should be amply prepared with coach Luigi Trillo keeping his trust in his team.
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"We believe in these guys, we know they'll make good decisions," said Trillo following a splendid endgame performance by his charges that netted them an 86-83 decision over gritty Terrafirma last Wednesday.(NC)
