SAINTS and Lattes-Letran sets out for a make-or-break shot at the playoffs when it faces Coast Guard at the close of the Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference eliminations at the Paco Arena in Manila today.
The Saints Spikers hope to ride the momentum of their tough five-set escape over the Adamson Soaring Falcons last Nov. 19 as they mix it up with the Lifesavers in the 1 p.m. opener of a triple-bill wrapping up the single round robin eliminations of the four-division tournament featuring a record total field of 24 teams.
Toting a 3-1 (win-loss) card, Letran, led by reigning NCAA Rookie of the Year Vince Himzon, must win over Coast Guard to join Pool C topnotcher Cignal in the knockout quarters phase which kicks off Sunday.
A loss, however, will enable Adamson, which finished with a 3-2 slate, to advance to the season-ending tournament of the league organized by Sports Vision.
Letran coach Brian Esquibel stressed the importance of preparation, patience and camaraderie, citing the need to maintain these qualities for victory against the Rudy Gatdula-led Lifesavers.
“Paghahandaan namin although mahaba-haba pa ‘yung pahinga so kailangan namin ma-maintain ‘yung patience and camaraderie ng players para ipanalo ‘yung game sa Coast Guard,” said Esquibel.
Chef on a Diet-FEU primes up for the quarters as it faces Savouge RTU Basilan at 3 p.m. with the Tamaraws looking for a sweep of Pool D.
