USJ-R seeks repeat over UC

The USJ-R-Bibbo Hotdog stakes its unbeaten slate and top billing against UC-Aspac Bank tonight when the Reinforced Partner’s Cup travel to Danao City.

The Jaguars, who are toting a perfect 5-0 card, seeks to fortify their position for the semifinal round with a repeat victory over the Webmasters, whom they beat 102-92 last Sunday.

The USJ-R-Bibbo Hotdog is the only team in the tournament that doesn’t have any reinforcements. Coach Edito Salacut charges are the same team that had a strong showing in the CESAFI tournament, and their cohesion is reaping benefits.

Salacut will again rely on Lyndon Gudez, Manny Gabas, Ranulfo Malinao, Armand Ponce, Jabe Delino, Jessmar Villahermosa and Bobby Hatague, to counter any adjustments UC may employ in tonight’s game.

A win will give USJ-R the solo leadership going into the semifinal round even if UC wins its two remaining assignments. A loss will give UC a share of the lead and will make the tournament a bit interesting.

With the odds stacked against them, UC will try to give Jun Mar Fajardo some support, so they could avenge their loss last Sunday. In that game, Fajardo was able to score at will, but the other players were unable to contribute significantly to chalk up a victory.

Coach Roel Gomez will have to make the most of the trio - Allain Abellanosa, Jonathan Canceran and Janssen Abella - who are dangerous when left open, if they want give USJ-R some semblance of a fight.

In the first game, the USPF-R. Lapid’s Chicharon also seeks to repeat over winless DBTC/Unilab-Alaxan, a team they beat in the first round.

Coach Raul Latonio, Sr. hopes his team could chalk up a crucial win that will boost their chances in the semifinal round. (GGM)