PBA Governor's Cup | Terrafirma vs Phoenix | 18 February, 4:30 PM (PST)

[Mary C]

PBA Governor's Cup 2023

 

Terrafirma Dyip vs Phoenix Super LPG Fuel Masters

When the Dyip and Fuel Masters square off on Saturday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, they both intend to widen that opening in an unflinching manner. A victory for either 2-3 Terrafirma or 1-5 Phoenix would maintain their chances of advancing past the 11-game elimination round and being included in the bracket of eight teams that will face off in the playoffs. Given the stakes, anticipate a no-questions-asked, no-given type of contest. Had Terrafirma recovered from a 109-131 loss to powerhouse TNT last Saturday and defeated import-less Rain or Shine just last Thursday, it would not have been in such a pickle. 

However, the Dyip played more sluggishly in the early goings and, despite catching up in the final stretch, were unable to stop the Elasto Painters from winning 120–118. When Rain or Shine played an all-Filipino lineup, Terrafirma coach Johnedel Cardel later acknowledged that his team was unable to match the aggressiveness of Rain or Shine. He claimed that "Siyempre they (the E-Painters) came out aggressive at hindi namin na-match iyon." His Dyip must now pick up the pieces and prepare for Phoenix's anticipated tough stance. Cardel said, "Nagtatalo rin iyan kaya hindi bibigay sa amin iyan." 

Phoenix's sense of urgency has also increased as a result of its own two-game losing streak, but the Suns do have the advantage of having had a little more time to recover after last Friday's 95-108 loss to Magnolia. The Fuel Masters' chances rely not only on an offense led by Jason Perkins and Tyler Tio, but also on Du'vaughnn Maxwell's performance this time. Jordan Williams of Terrafirma, who finished with 30 points and 16 rebounds in the Rain or Shine game but took some time to find his rhythm, should put Maxwell's defense to the test. Maxwell only managed 11 points and 10 rebounds while committing seven turnovers against the Hotshots.