Alab Pilipinas guns for first win versus Singapore Slingers

Returning to action after a 10-day break, Alab Pilipinas guns for a first win against a familiar foe in the Singapore Slingers on Wednesday in the Asean Basketball League at Santa Rosa Multi-Purpose Sports Complex in Laguna.

After dropping a narrow 89-92 decision to defending champion Eastern Sports Club last Nov. 19, the Filipinos hope to gain a measure of revenge against the Singaporeans, who eliminated them in the semifinals last season.

“It’s an important game for us, coming off a long break that’s why I told our players to really take advantage of practice time,” said Alab coach Jimmy Alapag. “I think we match up well with them (Singapore). A win is important for us to stay with the pack.”

The Slingers, who boasts American import Xavier Alexander and former PBA player AJ Mandani, are coming off a 77-66 home victory over Indonesian team CLS Knights.

Alapag said he’s expecting a better performance this time.