CAN Meralco make it two in a row and move closer to a dream PBA Governors’ Cup title?

Or can Barangay Ginebra regain its old never-say-die spirit and equalize the best-of-seven series with a victory tonight.

The answers will be known when the Bolts and the Gin Kings square off anew in Game 2 of the scheduled best-of-seven title showdown at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.

Game time is 6 p.m. with the Bolts looking for a fitting follow-up to their convincing 104-91 victory in the opener last Wednesday and the Gin Kings hoping to bounce back and even the title series.

Meralco coach Norman Black admitted the Bolts played with a lot more intensity than the Gin Kings in the series opener, but added they expect the crowd favorites to bounce back strong in the next game.

“It’s very important to get that first win. I thought we got off to a good start offensively and our defense held up very, very well,” said Black in an interview posted at the official PBA website after Wednesday’s game.

“But we’re not satisfied. We also know we can’t relax. For sure, they Ginebra will come out strong in the next game,” added Black, referring to Game 2, which will now be played at the Mall of Asia Arena on Friday.

Black’s optimism is also bolstered by the return of Chris Banchero to the Meralco line-up.

But Black is also the first to admit that the Bolts have not achieved anything yet, especially against a Gin Kings side that beat them in each of their three previous Governors’ Cup title battles.

And although veteran center Japeth Aguilar remains a doubtful starter due to his injury, Ginebra remains a force to reckon with a line-up that counts on Justin Brownlee, Scottie Thompson, LA Tenorio, Christian Standhardinger and Arvin Tolentino with multi-titled coach Tim Cone at the helm.

Game Friday:

(Mall of Asia Arena)
6 p.m. — Meralco vs. Ginebra

AUTHOR PROFILE

Robert Andaya