Toyota eyes solo lead vs. Pharex

Malaya
October 25, 2007

TOYOTA Balintawak eyes the early solo lead when it battles newcomer Pharex while the Philippine team tries to bounce back from a humbling loss as the 2008 PBL V-Go Extreme Energy Drink Cup returns to The Arena in San Juan today.

Nearly given up for the dead after falling behind by 21 points against Bacchus Energy Drink late in the second quarter, the Roadkings stepped on the gas in the payoff period behind the red-hot shooting of La Salle stars JV Casio and Cholo Villanueva to complete their remarkable 81-77 victory last Saturday.

"JV and Cholo gave us a big lift although they practiced only for four days with us," said Toyota Balintawak coach Ariel Vanguardia. "We have to play smart and use our experience to win again."

The Pharex Medics will go into the 4 p.m. match determined to make up for a heart-breaking 68-65 loss to San Mig Coffee in the other game last Saturday.

Aside from Casio, Villanueba, Vanguardia is also counting on Letran star RJ Jazul and veteran Jonathan Aldave for the needed firepower.

"Pharex is a dangerous team so everybody must step up," said Vanguardia, noting the Pharex Medics gave San Mig Coffee a tough time.

Pharex’s Ronnie Matias will be Vanguardia’s main concern as the do-it-all forward notched a career-high 27 points against the Coffee Kings.

Toyota Balintawak is currently tied for the lead with San Mig Coffee, Harbour Centre and Hapee Toothpaste with 1-0 cards.

Clashing at 2 o’clock are the Philippine team and Mail And More, with both teams aching to bounce back after dropping their opening game assignments.