Incomplete Dolphins battle Altas

The Philippine Christian University Dolphins, badly decimated in the aftermath of their tumultuous match with the San Beda Red Lions the last time out, seek to make a statement as they return to the hardcourt today playing the Perpetual Help-Rizal Altas at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum.

The Dolphins try to make do with what is left in their lineup minus suspended players Alwyn Ilagan, Robert Sanz, Nelson Gatdula, Leo Gaspi and Al Dais, as they bid to regain solo second place in the NCAA chart versus the Altas at 1 p.m.

But minus the five players, Loreto Soriano, Joseph Roque and Bernzon Franco may need to work extra hard to nail a seventh win against two losses.

Perpetual Help, in the cellar with a 1-7 win-loss card, is likely to capitalize on the absence of the five PCU players. The Altas may well put up a pressure defense throughout in a bid to wear out the undermanned Dolphins.

Meanwhile, St. Benilde seeks to solidify its hold of the lead as it plays Mapua at 4:30 p.m.

It could become a highly-emotional rematch following their rugged encounter in the first round that led to an ugly fracas.

Seven players – three Cardinals and four Blazers – were sanctioned after the incident with Jeff Martin getting the heaviest punishment of a three-game suspension for triggering the melee by punching Paolo Orbeta.

The Blazers will be going for an eighth win in nine outings while the Cardinals will be gunning for a fourth win also in nine starts.

The prolific Sunday Salvacion is again expected to lead the charge for St. Benilde. — Joey Villar