Foton Mentor looking past tiff with Petron

Foton coach Moro Branislav. Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net

Moro Branislav is looking past Foton’s projected “battle of the super teams” against Petron because, for him, it’s all about the semifinals already.

“It’s all about winning the semifinals,” said Foton’s Serbian coach referring to the knockout semifinals which doesn’t give much importance to win-loss record.

“In my opinion, the semis is the much bigger battle. One loss and you’re out. I have high respect for Petron, but that’s (semis) our main concern right now,” said Branislav.

With explosive imports each, the Tornadoes and the Tri Activ Spikers test their readiness for the tougher rounds ahead when they collide at 7 tonight in the Asics-Philippine Superliga Grand Prix at FilOil Flying V Centre.

“We will use it just to prepare for the semifinals,” he said. “Winning over Petron doesn’t change a thing. We’re still in the semifinals.”

Based on the format, all six teams get a chance to make it to the final regardless of the standings in the eliminations.

Teams in the last two rungs still get a crack at the semifinals through the KO playoffs by facing the No. 3 and No. 4 teams. Winners take on No. 1 and No. 2 clubs in the KO semifinals. So at 1-8, everything is possible for Cignal which tackles RC Cola-Army in the opener at 5 p.m.