After a convincing win against UP last Sunday, the Green Archers plan to keep the momentum going tomorrow against Adamson.
The Falcons are also coming off a win against UE last Wednesday and are very much determined to score a big win against the defending champions to tie them for second place in the standings.
In their first round meeting, the Archers defeated the Falcons 84-73. Throughout the most part of that game, La Salle was in control and though Adamson staged a rally down the stretch, they managed to make the right stops and adjustments to seal the win.
With the stakes much higher, this rematch promises to be intense. Coach Franz Pumaren mentioned after their win against UE that they have something in store for the Green Archers tomorrow. As to what that is we do not know but what is important is for the team to start strong and maintain that same energy until the end.
Defense wise, the Archers need to make sure that no player is left open beyond the arc and limit opportunities to score inside the paint. They also need to communicate more when switching during a pick-and-roll.
It will be interesting to see if Coach Aldin Ayo will apply the same strategy of having Ben Mbala guard their top scorer which in this case it could be either Ahanmisi or Pinggoy. But with Sarr being a threat down low, perhaps it would be best to have Ben guard him. The nice thing about this team is that they have the luxury to go big or play small ball depending on the situation.
As for offense, the Archers need to maintain proper spacing, proper timing and proper execution since that was one of the problems they had in their first encounter. Cut down on the forced shots and individualistic plays. Let’s hope the players will deliver.
This game is crucial for La Salle if they are to maintain their hold for the twice-to-beat advantage in the playoffs. A win here will put them up 2 games ahead of the Falcons. A loss however will just put more pressure on them to win their remaining matches to maintain their position.
It does not matter if they finish number one at the end of the eliminations. What the Archers need to focus on at this point is to have an easier path in getting into the finals.