‘It’s hard to stay on top of the world’

SMART CLARK GIGA CITY – Plain and simple, injuries finally got the better of a champion team like San Miguel Beer.

While offering no excuses, coach Leo Austria said his team’s physical health played an important factor as the Beermen’s five-year reign as PBA Philippine Cup champion came to an end Sunday night. .

A younger and highly motivated Meralco team brought down the veteran champions for a second straight victory, 90-68, and advanced to the semifinals of the league’s crown jewel for the first time in franchise history.

Austria did not deny the Bolts of their day, saying they deserved their Final Four spot against top seed Barangay Geneva.

But the champion coach believes the Brewers could have given their opponents a better fight if their key players were in tip-top shape.

“Our players did their best, but it’s difficult because for us to win games like this, a lot of preparation is needed. And it is difficult for us to prepare due to the injuries of our players, ”Austria said.

PHOTO: PBA Images

The veteran coach mentioned knee tendinitis that bothered big man Mo Tautuaa, Chris Ross was recovering from a hamstring injury, Marcio Lassiter playing with a sore groin and Alex Cabagnot with a painful hamstring .

That’s not counting the absence from the bubble of six-time MVP June Mar Fajardo and Matt Ganuelas-Rosser and Terrence Romeo’s shoulder dislocation in a game against TnT Tropang Giga at the start of the bubble season.

“We wanted to win. But the problem is how we can win with the type of situation we are experiencing, ”Austria said.

MORE OF SPIN

The San Miguel manager said it was a surprise that the Brewers managed to finish in the Top 4 at the end of the eliminations given the team’s health situation.

“At least we can survive and reach the quarterfinals,” he said. “Unfortunately, we cannot take advantage of double time.

“It was a learning experience for us, but it’s hard to stay on top of the world.”