Geneva and TNT lead 2-0 in PBA semifinals

Barangay Ginebra San Miguel and TNT are emphasizing the need to play sharper as they aim for a 2-0 lead over their respective opponents in the semifinals of the PBA Philippine Cup at the Cultural and Sports Center of the University Foundation of Angels

Geneva looks for another win against rival Meralco in Game 1 at 3:45 pm before TNT attempts to overtake Phoenix Super LPG in what could be another close battle in Game 2 scheduled for 6:30 pm

Both teams took the first semi-finals with contrasting fortunes, but coaches Tim Cone of Geneva and Bong Ravena of TNT know that complexions could change at any moment.

With Stanley Pringle leading the way, Geneva posted a 96-79 victory over Meralco on Wednesday, while TNT edged Phoenix 95-92 behind the clutch baskets of team captain Jayson Castro down the stretch.

“We have to be careful not to start hearing from all of you about how good we are. It’s a very dangerous thing, ”Cone told reporters during Wednesday’s post-match virtual interview.

“You beat a team by a big margin and all you’ve done is motivate them to come back and play with you. So we strongly believe that yesterday ended last night and that we have to make sure that we have to leave this game and move on, “he added.

It’s the same sentiment Ravena echoed after TNT narrowly won despite Phoenix losing star scorer Matthew Wright in the first quarter to an ankle injury and Calvin Abueva dealing with early foul issues.

“We have to be consistent in our defense because we know they are going to come back,” Ravena said. Babalik yan. Say naman magpapabaya yung Phoenix. We know.”

Wright’s status and condition will be the biggest question mark before Game 2, as it may affect how Phoenix tries to even the series at 1-1.

Even without Wright, the Fuel Masters went toe-to-toe with the Tropang Giga but had no response for Castro, who took when necessary late in the game.

For Meralco, the form that allowed them to dethrone five-time champion San Miguel Beer in the quarterfinals is something the Bolts hope to rediscover.

Having consistent performances from Chris Newsome, Baser Amer and Raymond Almazan will be important in Meralco’s bid to tie.