Llamados try to extend run, battle Sol Mercado-less Painters

MANILA—Defending champion Derby Ace shoots for a fourth straight win in the PBA Philippine Cup eliminations today when the streaking Llamados battle shorthanded Rain or Shine at the Cuneta Astrodome in Pasay.

The Llamados are slight favorites in the 7:30 p.m. clash with the Elasto Painters, who will play one of two games minus cornerstone point guard Solomon Mercado now playing in the Asian Games.

Powerade and Air21, both reeling from three straight losses, collide in the 5 p.m. aperitif hoping to avoid the bottom heading into the crucial stretches of the round.

Two teams will be getting the boot after the double-round elimination round and idle Barako Bull is a prime candidate for one of those spots as the Energy Boosters languish in the cellar at  2-7, a full game behind the Express and the Tigers.

Derby Ace has learned to win without its three best big men in Marc Pingris, Rafi Reavis and Kerby Raymundo as its talented backcourt, starring Peter June Simon, provided the spark.

Simon has scored 23 and 42 points in the last two wins of Derby Ace. James Yap has also been consistent, along with Roger Yap.

Gabriel Norwood will have to step up big for Rain or Shine (4-4)  along with Jay-R Reyes and Ryan Arana.

Rookies Rabeh Al-Hussaini and Nonoy Baclao and Ronjay Buenafe will again man the fort for the Express, while Gary David will be the prime offensive option of the Tigers.