Alab, Mono dispute title

by Jonas Terrado

Game Today (Sta. Rosa, Laguna)
8 p.m. – Alab Pilipinas vs Mono Vampire
(Series tied 2-2)

Series Summary:
Game 1: Alab Pilipinas 143, Mono Vampire 130, OT
Game 2: Mono Vampire 103, Alab Pilipinas 100
Game 3: Alab Pilipinas 99, Mono Vampire 93
Game 4: Mono Vampire 88, Alab Pilipinas 83

San Miguel Alab Pilipinas attempts to complete the mission that was aborted on the outskirts of this city when it battles Mono Vampire tonight in a winner-take-all match for the ASEAN Basketball League crown at the City of Sta. Rosa Multi-Purpose Complex in Sta. Rosa, Laguna.

Denied in its first chance of becoming the third ABL champion from the Philippines two days earlier with an 88-83 loss in nearby Nonthaburi, Alab looks to pass the final challenge of a season that began with disappointments and savor the thrill of victory in front of its home fans in the game set at 8 p.m.

Alab immediately boarded a flight back to Manila after a dismal Game 4 showing that saw them commit 26 turnovers and import Renaldo Balkman dealing with foul trouble, things that coach Jimmy Alapag and company can correct this time.

“It’s a very good team we’re playing against, can’t give that many opportunities,” said Alapag. “I thought, defensively, we did great – held them to 88 points. But when you give them 24 off your turnovers, it’s tough to win.”

Ray Parks Jr. seconded his coach’s sentiments, but is taking a positive approach after getting one road win in Game 3 and playing a decisive fifth game in the friendly confines of the Sta. Rosa venue.

“We came (to Thailand) to get a split, we got the job done,” Parks said. “It’s just about having to get the championship at home.”