MPBL: Manila looks for solo lead
Games Tuesday (Ynares Center Antipolo)
7 p.m. – Caloocan vs Manila
9 p.m. – Rizal vs Navotas
Heavy favorite Manila goes to Antipolo on Tuesday as it resumes its campaign in the MPBL Datu Cup even as three other teams shoot for important wins that could shape up their campaign in the tournament.
The Robust Energy Capsule-backed Stars battle the Caloocan Supremos-Longrich in the first game at 7 p.m. right before the match between host Rizal Crusaders-Xentro Mall and the Navotas Clutch in the main game at 9 p.m.
Coached by PBA legend Philip Cezar, the Stars had won six of their seven matches so far to gain a share of the lead with three other teams in the standings. They’re tied with the Mandaluyong El Tigre, San Juan Knights and Bataan Risers at the top of the Northern Division.
But Cezar doesn’t want his team to play complacent against a Supremos squad that has lost four in a row, making it a more dangerous team.
“Yun ang nakakatakot kalaban, yung mga nasa ilalim na kung maglaro parang walang mawawala sa kanila,” added Cezar. “Kailangan disiplinado kami.”
Rizal and Navotas, two teams which are also coming off from separate loss, try to change its respective paths by gunning for a win.
The Clutch are carrying a 3-4 win-loss record and are coming off an 80-76 loss at the hands of the Marikina Shoemasters. They will take on a Crusaders squad which is also looking to get back on the winning track.
Rizal lost a heartbreaker to Pasig, 81-78, which won its only game so far in this tournament put up by Senator Manny Pacquiao with former PBA MVP and 40 Greatest Member Kenneth Duremdes serving as commissioner.
