CEBU, Philippines - Worthy/University of the Visayas Green Lancers gun for their seventh straight win as the semifinals of the 8th Cebu Schools Athletic Foundation, Inc. (CESAFI) Partner's Cup begins today at the Cebu Coliseum.
Coming off a six-game sweep in the elimination round, the Lancers hope to extend their dominance in the monthly-long joust when they take on anew the Highlands Corned Beef/University of Cebu Webmasters in the first game at 5:15 p.m.
UV is seeking a repeat of its 78-68 whacking of UC last Thursday night. The Lancers led by much as 22 points, but the Webmasters staged a daring fightback to close within just six points though they still fell short in the end.
Nevertheless, the Webmasters have shown that they can't be taken lightly, offsetting their smaller lineup with their speed, pressure defense and prolific running game.
The likes of Garciano Puerto, Justine Dacalos, Joseph Mayol, Clint Mayol and Gileant Delator are among the vital cogs of the Webmasters.
The Lancers, on the other hand, will count the most of the vaunted combo of Josue Segumpan and Rey Suerte along with Jerome Napao, Jason Balabag, John Soliva, and Sheldon Gahi.
In the main match at 7 p.m., Phinma/Southwestern University Cobras hope to reaffirm their mastery over Mighty Sports/University of San Jose-Recoletos Jaguars, whom the beat via close 71-68 decision during their May 22 encounter.
The Cobras will again rely on All-Star playmaker Mark Jayven Tallo, Giovannie Luz, Anton Pardo, Mark Racho, Bernie Bregondo and their prized catch Shaquille Imperial.
They will go up against a strong USJ-R force powered by Jaybee Mantilla, RJ Dinolan, Miguel Gastador, Ricky Peromingan and Nelvin Navarra, among others. (FREEMAN)