Petron, TNT collide; Meralco-Alaska tiff precedes ‘rematch’

MANILA, Philippines—Petron Blaze and Talk ‘N Text clash for the first time Friday since their memorable seven-game series in the Governors’ Cup where the Boosters spoiled the Grand Slam bid of the Tropang Texters.

The Boosters and Tropang Texters clash at 7:30 p.m. for the right to join idle Rain or Shine for the PBA Philippine Cup lead at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Meralco, getting a shot-in-the-arm with the return of Sol Mercado from injury, faces winless Alaska at 5:15 p.m.

The Boosters won the Governors’ Cup, 4 games to 3, in an enthralling series last August and as much as Talk ‘N Text coach Chot Reyes would love to get back at Petron for the loss, he has more pressing matters within his squad.

Though they have already beefed up their lineup with the entry of Japeth Aguilar, injuries remain a concern for Reyes.

“For once we will be the underdog,” said Reyes, pointing out that fleet-footed guard Jayson Castro and hardworking forward Harvey Carey will sit out the game due to injuries.

“Petron is playing above their talent.  Cohesive and well-coached, they look like a champion team,” Reyes said.

Castro is nursing an ankle injury, while Carey has a bruised bone on his knee. Jimmy Alapag is also feeling pain on his foot, leaving Reyes with a short rotation at the point.

Meralco is coming off an 80-70 conquest of Petron Sunday in Mercado’s first game back from injury. Mercado, who had 16 points against the Boosters, will be a marked man against the Aces, who are still in search for the first win under new coach Joel Banal.