Express can hold own vs Beermen

By Nelson Beltran
Philippine Star
Saturday, October 13, 2007

Air21 coach Bo Perasol is impressed with San Miguel Beer’s lineup but is hardly intimidated in their showdown kicking off the 33rd PBA season tomorrow at the Araneta Coliseum.

Perasol expects a battle.

“We know that San Miguel has a formidable lineup. But we’re not thinking that we can’t beat them. We’re ready for a tough grind. We know we have a chance to win,” said Perasol.

“They may have the edge at frontcourt. But I’m thinking to defend them straight up. I would rather give them two points than three-point shots,” Perasol added.

The Beermen and the Express clash at 6:30 p.m. after an elaborate opening ceremony starting at 4:30 p.m. ABC5 starts its telecast with a primer at 4 p.m. The inaugurals will also be seen live on TFC with services in the Gulf region, US West Coast, Chicago, New York, New Jersey, Hong Kong, China, Singapore and Europe.

The fact that Air21 swept San Miguel in three games in the last Fiesta Cup makes Perasol and his troops confident they can handle the Beermen.

“Having that in mind is morale-booster for the boys. We’ve also prepared hard, we’re coming into the game thinking positively that we can beat them,” said the amiable Air21 mentor.

Perasol, however, believed San Miguel is among the top favorites this season.

Perasol’s top choice, though, is Purefoods with San Miguel, Talk n Text and Alaska Milk coming in the list.

“San Miguel has got an star-studded cast. Purefoods has a more balanced lineup with players ready to play specific roles,” said Perasol.

He said his own team has become younger and quicker but at the expense of losing experienced players.

“Only Wynne (Arboleda) is the veteran player left. The others are juniors, sophomores and rookies,” said Perasol.