MANILA, Philippines - Purefoods TJ Hotdogs got a huge lift from its two Yaps – James and Roger – as the Giants repulsed the upset-conscious Rain or Shine Elasto Painters, 90-85, for the decisive head start in their KFC PBA Philippine Cup best-of-five semifinal showdown at the Araneta Coliseum last night.
James Yap came through with an explosive 31-point performance highlighted by a clutch triple in the stretch while Roger Yap churned out 17 including eight in the fourth quarter as the Giants beat out the Elasto Painters in a fierce duel in their series opener.
The Giants kept the momentum of their strong finish in the elimination phase, ending the Elasto Painters’ two-game streak while stretching their own run to five games.
“We really expected a tough game especially because of the momentum Rain or Shine got coming off huge wins in the wildcard phase,” said Purefoods coach Ryan Gregorio.
“We knew it’s going to be tough as we expected them to wage a big fight. You really appreciate their kind of fighting hearts. What’s the key for us was that we accorded them the respect they deserve,” Gregorio added.
“We’ll come out with the same thing in mind in Game Two.”
Rain or Shine, which stunned Sta. Lucia Realty and Coca-Cola in the wildcards, appeared headed for another upset win as it engaged Purefoods in a toe-to-toe battle.
The Elasto Painters hit booming three-pointers to force a 73-all tie at the end of the third quarter then surged ahead at the start of the final canto.
Roger Yap, however, triggered a crucial Purefoods counter-attack and the Giants kept the Elasto Painters at bay the rest of the way.
Gregorio said their good job of neutralizing Sol Mercado was another key factor.
“We showed the guys (video) clips of Sol Mercado on his strong points. He was unstoppable in their wild card games against Sta. Lucia and Coca-Cola,” said Gregorio.
Mercado was held to 17 points, 10 below his average in their last three games.
Mercado and Roger Yap figured in a near fight towards the end of the game.