Grudge rematch

CEBU, Philippines - The Southwestern University-Phinma Cobras have  been by far relentless in kicking down foes that stand on their way.

Sporting a perfect 11-0 record, they are just a win away from completing a double round elimination sweep.

The challenge is now up to the University of the Visayas Green Lancers to end that rampage considering that they're in the best position to do so.

With revenge in mind, the Lancers will try to halt the Cobras' spectacular run when they take on anew  their bitterest rivals in the 16th Cebu Schools Athletic Foundation, Inc. men's basketball tournament today at the Cebu Coliseum.

Game time is set at 4 p.m., right after two other collegiate matches pitting the University of San Carlos Warriors against the Cebu Institute of Technology-University Wildcats at 1p.m. and the University of San Jose-Recoletos Jaguars versus the University of Southern Philippines Foundation Panthers at 2:30 p.m.

More than seeking payback of their 57-65 loss to the Cobras last September 1, the Lancers are fixing their target on tarnishing the clean slate of the Phinma-backed squad that will surely give them the needed boost going into the next stage of the three-month joust.

During their previous encounter, the Lancers led for most of the way only to cave in before a spirited SWU fightback engineered by two-time MVP Mark Jayven Tallo and explosive rookie Sir Shaquille Imperial.

As their paths cross again, Tallo and Imperial are surely a marked men in UV's defensive radar.

With their vastly improved import Quentin Nzuzi in tow, also to watch out for in the Cobras' camp are veterans Bernie Bregondo, Jiovannie Luz, Anton Pardo, Mark Racho and prized newcomers Ian Ortega and William Polican.

Led by their Liberian reinforcement  Bassieru Sackor, the Lancers will counter them with the likes of Rey Suerte, Alfred Codilla, Josue Segumpan, Tristan Albina and Sheldon Gahi.

The Lancers can also count on Jayson Balabag, Michael Macion, Monic Soliva, Jerome Napao and Michael Maestre as they seek to improve their 7-3 win-loss card. (FREEMAN)