Filoil semis: Lions, Bulldogs try to stretch perfect run
SAN BEDA and National University hope to sustain their perfect run all the way to the finals when they battle separate rivals in the knockout Final Four of the Filoil Flying V Preseason Hanes Cup today.
The Bulldogs, the tournament revelation toting a 9-0 record, get a real test against defending champion Ateneo in their bid for a first title berth at 3:30 p.m. at the Filoil Flying V Arena in San Juan.
Also unbeaten in nine outings, the Red Lions gun for a return trip to the finals against a rebuilding La Salle in the other semifinal pairing at 5:15 p.m.
“They’re a very good team right now, so we have to be really prepared for this game,” Ateneo coach Norman Black said of the Bulldogs, who got on a roll behind reigning UAAP MVP Ray Parks and Emmanuel Mbe.
In juniors action, the Red Cubs and the Bullpups kick off the four-game bill at 12 noon, while Letran and Xavier tangle at 1:45 p.m.
The Red Lions, though, remain favored over the Archers even if both squads are still adjusting with their new mentors.
“They (Lions) are a very fluid and strong team,” said La Salle coach Gee Abanilla.
