The Pals have scored big win over the Purefoods Chunkee Giants, the Alaska Milk Aces and the Welcoat Dragons, and they’re confident they can sustain their romp against the Express saddled by injuries to key players Niño Canaleta, Mark Clemence Telan and Homer Se.
The three players suffered injuries last Wednesday in a game against the Barangay Ginebra Kings. Telan and Se, who suffered ankle sprains, were able to rejoin the team in practice only yesterday.
Niño Canaleta suffered a broken nose bridge and was advised not to do any physical activity for at least two weeks.
"KG (Canaleta) injured his nose badly and he was able to wear face mask and start practicing only after 10 days. He also suffered swollen cartilage. That’s how bad his condition is," said Air21 coach Bo Perasol. Canaleta collided with teammate Ronald Tubid.
Despite Canalete’s absence, Perasol, however, is looking forward to an exciting match-up with the Pals.
"I feel we’re only at a disadvantage at three spot (small forward) because we’re left with only Arwind Santos at the position. We still have positive frame of mind coming into the game," said Perasol whose Express have lost all their first three games.
Escaping with a close win over Air21 Saturday, defending champion Purefoods seeks a follow-up win versus Coca-Cola in the day’s other game at 4:35 p.m.
But like Giants, the Tigers are setting out in high spirits following a 19-point rout of the favored Red Bull squad last Friday.
Purefoods and Coca-Cola are tied at sixth place with identical 1-2 win-loss records.
Talk n Text is tied with Sta. Lucia in the lead with the two teams the only unbeaten squads in the field. Air21 is with San Miguel in the bottom, both winless in three starts.
Despite Air21’s woes, Talk n Text coach Derrick Pumaren said they would not take the Express lightly.
"They’re not rated high but they’re capable of pulling an upset," said Pumaren.