BLACKWATER has surprised everybody with its relatively strong start in the PBA Philippine Cup. Avoiding to be handed a dose of their own medicine would be the Bossing's overriding concern when they tangle with Terrafirma Saturday at the Ynares Center in Antipolo.
The Dyip have lost all of their first four matches in the season-opening conference and now lie all alone in the cellar and in danger of missing out on the playoffs anew.
Compare that to Blackwater, which has won two of its first three games to shrug off the bitter memories of its one-win season last year.
Making the Bossing's surge even more impressive is the fact it counts defending champion TNT as one of its victims and engaged another former titlist in Barangay Ginebra before losing a close 82-85 decision.
Still, Blackwater coach Ariel Vanguardia knows the dire situation Terrafirma is in makes it even more dangerous in their 5:15 p.m. encounter, main reason he wants his team to be on its toes.
"We can't be complacent since they are a very explosive team," said Vanguardia on the eve of the match.
"Terrafirma is very unpredictable," Vanguardia also said. "We've got to be ready with whatever adjustments they are going to do since they've shown different points of attack in their first two games than in their last two."
Indeed, the Dyip relied mostly on Juami Tiongson and Aldrech Ramos in their first two outings, with the latter averaging 21 points after their first two games.
When Tiongson was stymied somewhat, first by Phoenix Super LPG and then by Converge, it was center Joseph Gabayni who stepped up the most with norms of 17 points and 8.0 rebounds.
Although Blackwater is primarily led by Jayvee Casio, the likes of fellow veteran guard Baser Amer, Yousef Taha, Rey Suerte and rookie Renato Ular should lead those providing ample support. (NC)
(Photo credits to: PBA)