The Petron Blaze Spikers’ post-match huddle after Game Two of the 2018 Chooks to Go-Philippine Superliga All-Filipino Cup was far from what anyone expected.
Instead of going for a sermon or solemn address, Petron head coach Shaq Delos Santos kept the positive tune he used throughout their now-thwarted 13-game winning streak.
The F2 Logistics Cargo Movers had finally figured out what seven other squads couldn’t, but Delos Santos wasn’t panicking.
“Siyempre stay positive kami, kasi wala na kaming kailangan ikahiya doon sa nangyari.
“Part kasi ‘yun ng game. Napakagandang challenge sa amin ‘to so accept lang kami. Sabi nga namin na tie ‘yung laban, hindi naman sila ahead. Sa Thursday, ready kami and paghahandaan namin,” said Delos Santos.
After dominating Game One, Petron were shackled in Game Two. Now, their chance at a fifth title is in peril against their arch-rivals.
Still, Delos Santos expects an apt response from his championship-caliber team come Game Three.
“Sabi ko nga sa kanila na kailangan ilabas namin ‘yung laro namin. Medyo struggle kami kanina. I think hindi para sa amin ‘yung game. Lumabas din ‘yung willingness ng F2 na manalo. Knowing them, talagang alam naman na babawi sila,“the national team mentor expressed.
“Kailangan ganoon din kami. Alam ko naman na ganoon ‘yung team namin. Hindi lang talaga para sa amin ‘yung game kanina.”
Both squads have split their past four Finals meetings. Thursday could very well decide which team deserves to be called the best club in the PSL.
The Cargo Movers are confident that their organizational penchant for success will shine. But Petron also boast of the same dynastic values.
“Kami naman, panglimang beses na namin magkalaban sa Finals. Used na din kami sa mga ganitong laban. I think hindi lang talaga para sa amin ‘yung Game Two,” said Delos Santos, who is gunning for his third PSL crown.
“Sabi ko nga na stay positive lang kami. Ito pa siguro ‘yung magiging dahilan para mas mabuo kami.”
