San Miguel Beermen try to post a commanding advantage over Phoenix as they shoot for a 2-0 lead in their best-of-seven semifinals series in the 2019 Philippine Basketball Association Philippine Cup.
The Beermen can go for a more significant edge while the Fuel Masters look to equalize as they meet again in Game 2 at 7 p.m. at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
Fully in their element, the Beermen already showed the top seed Fuel Masters why they are the four-time defending champions.
San Miguel totally outclassed Phoenix, 100-88, in Game 1 Saturday night to take a 1-0 lead and remind everyone why it is still the heavy favorite to keep the crown.
San Miguel coach Leo Austria loved what he saw from his wards and would certainly love a repeat from them.
“I was worried at first since we did not have enough time to prepare but the players were focused and prepared,” said San Miguel coach Leo Austria. “I wish we can keep going in Game 2.”
In Game 1, whoever Austria fielded in contributed heavily in the rout that San Miguel dished out.
Using their strength inside and outside, the Beermen were able to do what they wanted at will to run Phoenix out of the building emphatically.
Alex Cabagnot was at the forefront of San Miguel’s attack, playing a complete game with 26 points, five rebounds and seven assists.
The Fuel Masters played from behind for the most part and need to regroup to make sure they don’t fall into a deeper 0-2 hole.
Meanwhile, Rain or Shine is shooting for a 2-0 lead as of press time in its own best-of-seven affair against Magnolia over at the other side of the fence.