AFTER three months of using a new system under a new coach but still with a depleted line-up, the B-MEG Derby Ace finally found the right formula for winning. After starting the Philippine Cup with a woeful 1-5 card, the Llamados made a complete turnaround and are now the hottest team in the league with a five-game winning run to climb to solo fourth at 6-5.
New B-MEG Derby Ace coach Jorge Gallent is only too happy to see his team’s transformation in its past five wins as the Llamados finally lived up to their potential as a title contender.
“Five-game streak na kami and we’re just riding the momentum. Everyone knows the roles in the team and everyone is now responding. We’re just helping each other inside the court. We’re finally blending after some obvious adjustments to start the season,’’ said Gallent.
B-MEG’s latest victim was Alaska, which the Llamados outsteadied down the stretch en route to an 84-79 grinder on Wednesday. And with only three games left in their schedule in the eliminations, the Llamados are looking forward to continue their resurgence.
“The chance for the top two is still there. That’s what we hope for. I know Talk ‘N Text will still have to play strong teams and we will still face Ginebra, too. So I think the most important thing is just to play our game the way we played the past five games.’’
From the start, the Llamados expected to have a tough time defending their All-Filipino diadem, especially after their former coach, Ryan Gregorio, decided to transfer to Meralco.
Jeric Lopez, Manila Standard Today
