AS the tussle intensifies, San Miguel Beer looks to once again move a step closer to the big stage while rejuvenated Barangay Ginebra aims to equalize as the two juggernauts meet again in the resumption of their best-of-seven semifinals series in the 2018 Philippine Basketball Association Philippine Cup playoffs.
Game 4 will be critical as both teams look to be in better position in the scheduled 7 p.m. clash at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City tonight.
After San Miguel took Game 1 and 2 in contrasting fashion, Barangay Ginebra responded well in Game 3 to avoid a near-insurmountable hole and inch closer.
Knowing they badly need a win to keep their campaign alive, the Gin Kings finally notched a win in the series, 95-87, in Game 3 Tuesday night to get themselves in the series.
Ginebra coach Tim Cone knows his team needs another near-flawless performance like that in order to square everything up.
“We have to play perfect to beat them again,” said Cone. “We need another one like the last game to have a chance.”
Ginebra banked on the effectivity of big men Japeth Aguilar and Prince Caperal while LA Tenorio provided the stability and production in the backcourt.
The big question for the game ahead is the presence of San Miguel guard Chris Ross.
The vital spitfire is considered as game-time decision due to his strained right thigh which he suffered in Game 3, causing him to miss almost the entire second half.
Should Ross be unavailable, San Miguel would have to rely heavily on other star guard Alex Cabagnot and reserve point guard Brian Heruela.
For Ginebra, star slotman Greg Slaughter’s availability will still be in doubt.