Brgy. Ginebra def Meralco, 104-103 [PBA S49 Govs’ Cup QF Game 2 | Sep. 28, 2024]

Until Barangay Ginebra’s impressive 22-14 closing surge, the opening clash between the Gin Kings and the Meralco Bolts on Thursday was a fiercely contested battle that could have tipped in favor of either team.

The same intensity is anticipated for Game Two of their PBA Governors’ Cup best-of-five quarterfinals series at the Smart Araneta Coliseum this Saturday.

Tip-off is scheduled for 7:30 p.m.

However, the weight of expectation rests more heavily on Meralco’s shoulders. Coach Luigi Trillo and his team must regroup and deliver a strong response, or they risk facing the daunting prospect of digging themselves out of a significant 0-2 deficit.

Justin Brownlee showcased his championship pedigree, leading Ginebra’s blazing charge down the stretch to secure a 99-92 victory on Thursday at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.

Brownlee views the matchup as an exhilarating challenge, especially given the storied rivalry between the two teams, which features three memorable title clashes.

All those championship encounters went in Ginebra’s favor, yet the Bolts have exacted some measure of revenge with wins in their last two playoff meetings.

For coach Tim Cone, the situation is intriguing, particularly since neither team had the opportunity to assess each other during the elimination round.

As the Gin Kings aim to replicate their success on Saturday, the Bolts face the critical challenge of delivering a decisive counterattack.