Talk ‘N Text tries to wrap up the series anew against Powerade in Game Five of their best-of-seven championship series of the PBA Philippine Cup Sunday at the SMART-Araneta Coliseum.

Denied in the last game, the Tropang Texters hope to end the giant-killing ways of the Tigers as they collide at 6 p.m.

Powerade avoided a sweep after scoring a 100-97 win in Game Four last Friday to stay alive and trim Talk ‘N Text’s lead to 3-1.

Tropang Texters coach Chot Reyes admitted their loss gave the Tigers the confidence that could put them back in the series.

“There’s definitely a cause of concern,” said Reyes, who criticized his big men in Game Four as they were outscored by their counterparts, 40-29.

Japeth Aguilar, Ranidel de Ocampo, and Kelly Williams were disappointments on offense for the Texters as they combined for just 10 points in Game Four.

With the trio struggling, Reyes was forced to bring in Rich Alvarez and Gilbert Lao to send a message to his high-profile big men.

“I coach based on performance not on reputation,” said Reyes.

Talk ‘N Text guards held their own against Powerade’s vaunted Big Three of Jvee Casio, Marcio Lassiter and Gary David, who was named Best Player of the Philippine Cup before the game.

Larry Fonacier scored a team-high 20 points, while Jimmy Alapag, Jason Castro and Ryan Reyes combined for 38 points.

The Tigers are now 4-0 in a do-or-die situations this conference and coach Bo Perasol hopes to extend the streak in Game Five.

“We’re not thinking of 3-1. We’re just thinking of one game and I think it’s doable,” said Perasol. “I hope the second unit can provide the support again.”

David had 35 points in Game Four, his 13th game with at least 30 points in the Philippine Cup. Hardworking Sean Anthony also contributed big with 19 points and 11 rebounds in the win.

Source: interAKTV