ECOOIL-La Salle is determined to get the job done when it faces Marinerong Pilipino-San Beda in Game 2 of their best-of-three titular series for the 2023 PBA D-League Aspirants' Cup on Monday.
The Green Archers made Game 1 looked easy, dominating the Red Lions throughout for a 108-82 romp and a huge psychological advantage heading to the 3 p.m. encounter at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City.
Jaded observers believe there is no stopping EcoOil-La Salle from claiming their second straight title considering its bench depth and mindset towards the game.
But coach Gian Nazario, who was entrusted by Archers' head coach Topex Robinson to call the shot in the tournament, downplays everybody's expectations.
"It's a best-of-three series so it does not put us anywhere, " Nazario cautioned.
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"We expect them (Red Lions) to be back. It boils down to the respect we have for San Beda coach Yuri (Escueta) and his team."
Notwithstanding their disappointing loss in Game 1, Escueta believes all is not loss for the Red Lions.
"We're one step behind but we know what we need to do. Sabi ko nga, even if we lose by a point or 28 points, it's just one game. We just have to start the game better in Game 2 with more energy and effort," noted Escueta.(JBU)
