PBA D-League Foundation Cup Cafe France, Racal dispute lead

MANILA, Philippines – Cafe France and Racal clash today in an early duel of fancied teams even as Phoenix seeks a share of the lead against Topstar ZC Mindanao at the resumption of the PBA D-League Foundation Cup at the JCSGO gym in Cubao.

The Bakers dominated the Topstar ZC Mindanao Aguilas and fashioned out an 89-64 rout last week but they expect a tougher outing against the Tile Masters, who are also coming off an easy 100-67 rout of the AMA Online Education Titans last Tuesday.

But Cafe France hopes to draw solid games from Jam Cortez and Congolese big man Rod Ebondo as the Bakers go for win No. 2 and the early lead against the Tile Masters at 4 p.m.

But Racal is also out to come up with a follow-up to a solid start with the Tile Masters keen on atoning for their failed semifinals bid in the Aspirants’ Cup.

The Accelerators are actually seeking the early hold of the lead as they battle the Aguilas at 2 p.m.

With former UST star Ed Daquioag on the firing end, Phoenix blasted Tanduay, 98-79, also last Tuesday to kick off the Accelerators’ title drive.

Despite his wards’ edge in manpower and experience, Phoenix coach Eric Gonzales cautioned the Accelerators not to take the Aguials lightly and underscored the need to focus on the task at hand.

“I know my guys are playing confident, but what we have to do is to respect the opponent, whoever they are,” said Gonzales.