Elasto Painters Stay Focused Ahead of Key Match Against Terrafirma
Overcoming Adversity
The Rain or Shine Elasto Painters continue their strong push in the PBA Philippine Cup despite being hit by another major setback. As they prepare to face the struggling Terrafirma Dyip this Wednesday at the PhilSports Arena, the team remains determined to secure a twice-to-beat advantage in the playoffs.
Their latest challenge comes with the loss of rising guard Felix Lemetti, who suffered a season-ending hand fracture. The injury sidelines him for at least six weeks, adding to a growing list of casualties that already includes veteran Beau Belga, out due to vertigo.
“Maganda inilalaro niya, kahit sa practice, tapos na-fracture pa kamay… out for the season na siya,” shared Rain or Shine coach Yeng Guiao, acknowledging Lemetti’s recent strong performances and the void his absence creates.
Must-Win vs Terrafirma
Rain or Shine currently holds a 5-3 record and looks to improve to 6-3 with a win over Terrafirma. The Dyip, sitting at the bottom of the standings with a 1-8 record, are out of playoff contention but remain a potential threat in Guiao’s eyes.
“Playing a team na walang pressure is always dangerous,” Guiao warned. He pointed to Terrafirma’s near-upset of Converge in their last game, where the Dyip led by as much as 18 points before faltering late in a 117-103 loss.
Guiao emphasized the importance of taking early control of the game: “Kapag nakadikit sila sa iyo, medyo delikado na iyon. That’s one thing we’re trying to avoid.”
Looking Ahead to San Miguel
While Rain or Shine’s immediate focus is on Terrafirma, they are also keeping an eye on a more formidable opponent — San Miguel Beer. The E-Painters face the Beermen on Saturday in what could be a decisive clash for playoff positioning, before wrapping up the eliminations on June 15 against Barangay Ginebra.
Guiao admitted the Terrafirma game will serve as a tune-up for the bigger challenge ahead. “May mga gusto kaming subukan, so tingnan natin kung uubra,” he said, hinting at strategic adjustments and player rotations.
Key Matchup: Louie Sangalang
One player Rain or Shine is particularly wary of is Terrafirma’s big man Louie Sangalang. In their previous meeting during the Commissioner’s Cup, Sangalang caused significant problems for the Elasto Painters with a 21-point, 8-rebound performance.
Guiao sees this matchup as a litmus test for his post players — especially new recruit Kris Porter. “Pag di namin na-stop ‘yung Sangalang, hindi namin talaga mai-stop si June Mar (Fajardo),” Guiao stressed, drawing a connection between their immediate matchup and the looming battle against SMB’s dominant center.
The Bigger Picture
Despite injuries and a tight schedule, Rain or Shine remains on course to finish strong. A sweep of their last three games would likely guarantee them a top-four finish — and with it, a crucial twice-to-beat edge in the quarterfinals.
The team’s resilience and tactical focus, led by the seasoned Guiao, continue to drive their campaign forward. Even as they face undermanned lineups and unpredictable opponents, the Elasto Painters are not taking anything for granted.