Austria favors rested Aces in Game 6

But it’s seasoned E-Painters in do-or-die 

MANILA, Philippines - It would be Alaska Milk in Game Six or Rain or Shine in Game Seven.

 San Miguel Beer coach Leo Austria made this bold forecast on the possible outcome of the Alaska-Rain or Shine showdown for the second berth in the PBA Philippine Cup finale.

Game Six is at 5 p.m. on Jan. 4 at the Mall of Asia Arena with the Aces taking their first of two cracks at wrapping up the best-of-seven series.

Alaska moved in the threshold of a return stint in PBA Finals as the Aces smothered the E-Painters, 93-88, to take the three-games-to-two lead in the series.

Austria and his staff will be keen observers for the rest of this playoff where the winner advances to the championship series versus the Beermen.

“From the start of the conference, Alaska thrives on its relentless full-court trapping defense. They will be refreshed by the weeklong break and that would be a big plus factor for Alaska,” Austria told The STAR.

“Rain or Shine’s physicality isn’t working. How can Rain or Shine survive would now depend on the motivation of coach Yeng (Guiao). We all know that coach Yeng is good at that,” Austria also said.

If Alaska isn’t able to close out the series in Game Six, the amiable SMB bench chieftain believes odds would shift on Rain or Shine’s favor.

“They’re more experienced,” said Austria of the E-Painters who are in chase of a third straight Philippine Cup finals appearance and third title playoff stint in the league’s last four conferences.

“I think Alaska’s only advantage is its trapping. The problem with Rain or Shine the last time was lack of intensity. I didn’t see it in them in Game Five,” Austria pointed out.

“You can see that they can beat Alaska as they’re leading by 19. They just can’t keep the intensity throughout the game,” Austria added.

The E-Painters have lost two games where they blew a huge double-digit spreads, leading to a 2-3 series deficit going to Game Six.

Alaska’s great shape and unforgiving defense are key factors.

“I think Alaska is the fittest team in the league at the moment. Next is Kia but they don’t have the materials (that can win games). Alaska banks on its great shape in running its trapping defense,” said Austria.

“After a basket, they harass the in-bounder and they trap the first receiver. From Day One, they’ve been doing that. Their condition is amazing,” Austria added.

The Aces imposed their game Saturday night, forcing the E-Painters to 16 errors and pounding Rain or Shine, 17-5, on points off turnovers.