Austria: Brewers ‘did their best’ but the situation is too difficult

SMART CLARK GIGA CITY: Losing control of a prized possession is something Leo Austria would not take lightly.

But the seasoned mentor insisted that there were several factors that led to San Miguel’s disappearance at the hands of Meralco.

“We always wanted to win, but the problem is, how can we win with that kind of situation we are experiencing?” Austria said shortly after being defeated by a determined Bolts team on Sunday night.

In an unusual sight, the once-invincible San Miguel stood puffing and puffing for 48 minutes and ultimately delivered a 90-68 beating from Meralco at the AUF Arena.

The Bolts, seeded fifth after eliminations, moved heaven and earth to nullify the two-shot lead imposed by the Beermen.

Injuries made it difficult

San Miguel, winner of five consecutive Philippine championships, entered the bubble without six-time MVP June Mar Fajardo, who is still recovering from injury. Matt Ganuelas-Rosser also chose not to join the team at Clark.

It didn’t help that they lost Terrence Romeo mid-conference due to a dislocated shoulder.

Injuries continued to plague the Austrian team throughout the conference, affecting veterans Chris Ross and Marcio Lassiter, Alex Cabagnot and even big man Mo Tautuaa.

With challenges stalking St. Michael from the start, prolonging the reign is nearly impossible, according to Austria.

“What is at stake in this game is our five consecutive Philippine Cup titles and I thought we would have a certain sense of urgency. Our players did their best, but it is difficult because for us to win games like these we need a lot of preparation. But it is difficult for us to prepare for the injuries of the players, ”he said.

However, the 62-year-old strategist admitted that the Bolts were much more eager to win and make their own mark with their first semi-final appearance at the Philippine Cup.

“We expect it to be a close fight, but we are overwhelmed by its intensity and they want to win more than we want.”

Still, the three-time Coach of the Year is proud of what his unmanned team achieved in the bubble.

“This is a very unusual situation for everyone. At least we survive and we can make it to the quarterfinals. Unfortunately, we were not able to take advantage of twice the batter, ”he said.

“It is a learning experience for us. It’s very difficult to stay on top of the world. ”

Experienced forward Arwind Santos also praised the team’s effort during the single conference.

“I am happy with all the effort and sacrifice we made here because this bubble is not so easy. This is a different kind of test, but at least we didn’t make it to the quarters and we didn’t have a chance to win the semi-finals. It’s very short, ”said the 39-year-old cager.